Power Slap’s newest South African powerhouse, Jaco “Groot Wit” Marneweck, is finally stepping onto the global stage at Power Slap 17 in Saudi Arabia, where he’ll go head-to-head with Denis Vildanov in a colossal super heavyweight showdown.
For Marneweck, this debut has been a long time coming. After serving as an alternate earlier in the year and enduring months of preparation, he’s now ready to make his mark on the international stage.
“Brother, it’s been quite a road to get to this,” Marneweck told Slap News. “Taking on one of the biggest oaks in Power Slap — it’s been a dream come true to get to this point, and I really can’t wait to stand across the table from the big guys.”
LEARNING FROM THE BEST
Marneweck’s opponent, Denis Vildanov, proved his power in a memorable clash against the Hawaiian Assassin. Jaco says he learned a lot from studying that bout.
“He’s got a powerful shot. He rocked the Hitman with his first slap — and the Hitman’s a tough guy, he’s the champ. Denis is very strong,” he explained. “I could see a lot in his technique and the way he carries himself. I’m very prepared for this fight.”
💪 NINE MONTHS OF GRIND
It’s been nearly nine months since Marneweck last appeared as an alternate at Power Slap 11 in Saudi Arabia — and while the wait tested his patience, it also sharpened his focus.
“It’s a long time to prepare, and you go up and down mentally,” he admitted. “But these last three months, I’ve given it everything. When I got that contract, I was ready. It’s time to shine on the table.”
When asked about his training, the South African laughed:
“Just basic gym work, neck stretches — and chowing a lot of biltong,” he said. “Got to keep that jaw strong! But honestly, it’s been a lot of mental preparation too.”
🌍 REPRESENTING SOUTH AFRICA WITH PRIDE
Standing toe-to-toe with fellow South African Donnie van Heerden, Marneweck joins a growing wave of talent putting South Africa on the Power Slap map.
“Myself and Donnie are about five kilograms apart,” he revealed. “We’ve known each other for quite a while, and he’s been giving me advice the whole way. It’s a huge honour to get tips from the number five in the world.”
Marneweck also credits Robert from Punisher Slap Fight, his former coach and mentor, for shaping his slap fighting fundamentals.
“Robert taught me a lot — he still sends me videos, and Donnie’s on my case all the time,” he said. “I’ve also had champs like Isaiah Quinones reach out and give me advice. It’s been amazing to have that kind of support.”
⚡ “ONE HELL OF A PK”
So, what can fans expect when “Groot Wit” steps up in Saudi Arabia?
“You can expect one of the biggest South Africans there is,” Marneweck declared. “I’m putting myself on the table, aiming for the top 10 — and you can expect one hell of a PK.”
🏁 MESSAGE TO DENIS VILDANOV
As the countdown to Power Slap 17 continues, Marneweck had a clear message for his opponent:
“Brother, bring your all. Give everything. We’ve got nothing to lose and everything to prove.”
With Christine Wolmarans and Danie van Heerden already making waves, Jaco “Groot Wit” Marneweck represents the next generation of South African strength in Power Slap. And come Power Slap 17, he plans to show the world what Mzansi power really looks like.
Power Slap 17 lands in Saudi Arabia with a stacked card full of international heavy hitters and knockout energy.
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