The working-class white neighbourhood of Randgate, in the far west of metropolitan Johannesburg, is tightly knit by its underdog pride. What is not visible or audible from the front porches of neighbours soon becomes gossip. Likewise, this proud community knows all about life’s punches and rock‐hard body blows – people who refuse to just lie down.
Through perseverance and ambition distilled from experiences that have shaped him as both a boxer and a person, Eddie Blignaut rises above his surroundings. Coached by Uncle Ig, Eddie walks a path that is rarely afforded – from an open‐faced young tyro to a tough professional boxing champion of the world. He fights worldwide and wins against the most formidable opponents. In South Africa, he becomes a household name; his lifestyle is the epitome of success and prosperity.
From sportsman to businessman, the press writes about him. Like Icarus, Eddie flies too close to the sun. His social weaknesses and blind spots slowly but surely trip him up. His most cunning opponents arise from his home neighbourhood and family. In envy and jealousy, ambushes are set, accusations made, and lives turned upside down. Eddie finally encounters the biggest test of his integrity – one coming from outside the ring.
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