Grootwit from Mbombela clarifies ‘absence’ from Power Slap 11
Grootwit took the opportunity to clear the air and encourage his supporters to stay positive and focused.
Jaco ‘Grootwit’ Marneweck, a Lowveld-based slap fighter, recently shed light on his ‘absence’ from the Power Slap 11 event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Despite early announcements in January indicating his participation, Grootwit recently revealed that he was actually an alternate for the event. This news came as a surprise to his fans back home, who had been eagerly anticipating his appearance on the big screen.
On January 8, Grootwit told Lowvelder about his intended participation on January 30. However, it was later disclosed through a Facebook post on January 15 that he would serve as an alternate, ready to step in if needed. In the post, Grootwit stated: “I’m not coming there as an alternate only. I want to prove myself.”
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Grootwit clarified the role of an ‘alternate’, explaining that it involves being prepared to compete if another fighter fails their medical, doesn’t make the minimum weight, or suffers an injury or illness before the fight.
“So should any of the super heavyweights not have been able to compete, I would have taken their place. I was the super heavyweight alternate, and there was one alternate for each weight division,” he explained on his Facebook page today, January 31, in an effort to address the confusion and speculation.
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He shared that while everyone, including himself, cleared their medicals, the main fighters were all able to compete, leaving him without a match. Despite not fighting, Grootwit emphasised the valuable experience he gained and his anticipation for future opportunities.
Grootwit also took the opportunity to encourage his supporters to stay positive and focused, urging them to avoid criticism and negativity. He expressed his gratitude for the support and excitement surrounding his journey.
Grootwit will be landing at KMI Airport at 17:00 tomorrow, February 1, and will head straight to the White River Rugby Club where the Africa Tyres 7s will be taking place.
