Boxing For God
Greg Olivier is hard at work getting ready for his very first boxing match.
From a life of booze and drugs to being a successful businessman, Greg Olivier has turned his life around for the better. The Wilro Park resident insists that his transformation is all thanks to God who brought boxing into his life. Greg is now getting ready to make his boxing debut this month when he takes on Warren le Roux.
The 34-year-old Greg started training last year, thanks to his best friend and professional boxer, Hansie Carr, who made a comeback to the ring last year.
“When I was in my teens, my family sent me to a boxing gym but after a while I stopped so I had zero fights.
When I was young it was a way to channel my aggression,” said Greg.
Just three years ago, he was working as a bouncer at a nightclub, getting stabbed and shot at. His lifestyle was that of drinking six nights a week, hopping from one bar to another and consuming various drugs.
“I then found God, and positive things started happening in my life. I now have five franchise stores called Evolutionvape where we market electronic cigarettes. Since I started boxing, I’ve lost 15 kilograms. I’ve become an evangelist and go on missions to help out in communities around South Africa. God put these things in my life so I can improve and be a better person,” he said.
With his match date coming up, Greg has been hard at work with BRD Academy’s Manny Fernandes, getting himself physically and mentally ready to get into the ring.
“I truly respect those who have gone fully professional because it is tough. If it wasn’t for Uncle Manny believing in me, I wouldn’t have gone very far. He told me I had potential and he has taken me to the next level. He has helped me push the boundaries and limits in mind and body,” Greg said.
With sponsors such as Nicholas Malherbe Attorneys and Pizza Del Forno Ruimsig, Greg has taken a fun approach to the match.
“It didn’t feel real until I sold the first ticket and that’s when I knew there was no turning back. Boxing is a mental sport – you can’t play it like other sports. However, I’m nervous and excited because I have been working hard in the gym and now I want to see the results.”
Manny, Greg’s trainer, said Greg is a positive example to the youth of Roodepoort and will serve as a good role model for young boxers.
“Win or lose, there is no pressure on him. We have trained hard, but it’s true – Greg doesn’t have any experience. But that’s not what it’s about. He has changed his life around so just being in the ring is a huge accomplishment,” he said.
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