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Guyanese world champion female boxer Gwendolyn O’Neil weighs in on Mandela’s legacy
In January 2007, the world stood still for Gwendolyn ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil, otherwise affectionately known as “Big Red”. She came face to face with two of the biggest influences in her life, Nelson Mandela and Muhammad Ali, by way of his daughter, Laila Ali, her opponent for the February 3, 2007 WBC and WIBA super middleweight
Gwendolyn O’Neil and the late Nelson Mandela. (Gallo Getty Images)
title fight.
“I was so nervous about meeting this man, Mandela, who had sacrificed his freedom for 27 years to see his people in South Africa free and the unjust apartheid system dismantled. He immediately made me feel comfortable because he was so humble even though he was this great powerful leader.” He told me, “May the best woman win and I wish both you and Laila good luck.”
I would like to extend my condolences to Nelson Mandela’s entire family. The world has lost a compassionate, loving and very, very forgiving man who cared about all peoples of the world regardless of race or religion. I’m happy for the inspiration of meeting Mandela and his legacy of defending the rights of the poor and the oppressed.”
Meanwhile, O’Neil, who is under new management, plans to continue fighting and will be in action come the New Year. Via a release she said, “I am looking forward to a productive and active 2014. I’m excited about my new management team and will be defending my world heavyweight titles in 2014 against all the top contenders. I wish my fellow Guyanese a prosperous and happy new year and look forward to your continued support. God and the
universe has blessed me with this boxing talent and goodness and love,” the champ noted.
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