View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Soccer Laduma (@soccer_laduma)

'Yvonne Chaka Chaka's fame made things worse for me'

In this edition of Story Behind The Nickname, KickOff enjoys the recollections of legendary former Moroka Swallows star Andries Mpondo as he opens up about the origins of his popular nickname, "Chaka Chaka".

This is a nickname he says has stuck with him since his days as a young boy due to his head.

What's your nickname?

"Chaka Chaka"

Who gave it to you and why?

"Growing up in Meadowlands, I was called 'Chafkop' due to my big head, while others preferred to call me 'Chaka'.

READ: From mowing down PSL strikers to tackling criminals

"There were those who were calling me Jomo [Sono] because of my head. Yvonne Chaka Chaka's fame made things worse for me [laughs].

"It's difficult to get rid of a name that you get from people, especially from your community."

Did you like it?

"I didn't have a choice. If fans want you to be Chaka Chaka, you will be Chaka Chaka. You have to accept."

Anyone that didn't use it?

"I had several nicknames. There are those who called me 'June 16', and at school, I was known as 'Ma-Thousand'. But in the end, Chaka Chaka became my label and a brand."

If you could relive it, what would you want your nickname to be?

"That's a difficult question [laughs]. But I think it's never your choice, people who watch your games should be the one who gives you a name.

"If they call you Ace, then it means you have an unmatched skill on the field, you are up there at the top.

READ | Makaab: Chiefs won't mind me saying this

"So, I'm happy with Chaka Chaka because now it has become a brand."

Comments