Frustrating not to be in the hexagon – Swanepoel
Athletes hoping for a much better year as lack of action takes its toll
As uncertainty continues to hover over the sporting fraternity due to Covid-19, thousands of athletes continue to be frustrated as they wonder how long the world’s current situation marred by the virus, will continue.
It’s even worse for the athletes who only rely on sport for their income. One athlete who is hoping for the Covid-19 situation to be better so people can go back to ‘work’ is Boksburg’s MMA fighter Robert ‘9mm’ Swanepoel, who remains optimistic.
The Advertiser caught up with the EFC fighter to find out how he’s keeping busy and surviving amid the extended time of no fighting action.
The Advertiser asked:
Are you still training?
Yes, I’m working on sharpening my skills every day.
How has your absence from the hexagon affected you?
It has been very frustrating not being in the hexagon and being able to showcase my skills.
What’s your overall opinion on the Covid-19 pandemic?
It’s still something that I’m coming to terms with as this pandemic hit the whole world from nowhere and keeps on restricting me from doing what I love.
How has the stoppage of EFC affected you financially?
It has had a bit of a financial impact on me especially when it comes to getting sponsors to come on board and getting my name out there. Luckily I am still working and that has been enough to stay afloat financially.
What do you miss most about being in the hexagon?
I miss competing and the rush of fighting in front of the whole world. It’s a feeling that can’t really be described unless you have been in there.
What type of challenges have you had to face throughout lockdown?
I think the biggest challenges I am facing still is the restrictions that come with lockdown and having to get used to basically changing your lifestyle as you know it.
How do you keep yourself sane because I can imagine how frustrating training for the unknown is?
It’s very frustrating but I have been staying positive as much as I can and I’ve just been pushing forward and remembering why I started fighting in the first place.
How has the whole lockdown experience been like to you personally?
It hasn’t been great to be honest; like I said, I’m still struggling to come to terms with this lockdown.
How was your December holiday?
I had a good rest from work in December and managed to go fishing at least so that was good.
Swanepoel normally competes in the EFC lightweight division.
Also Read: Swanepoel vows to end losing streak
