Boxing returns after long break

Professional boxing returns to the ring on the local scene this month after a break of about four months due to Covid-19.

Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board president Lonzoe ‘Defector’ Zimba said in an interview yesterday that the resumption follows the easing of public gathering restrictions to 250 by the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19.

“It has been tough for our boxers due to the pandemic, but the good news now is that we are opening up following the easing of restrictions on public gathering.

“However, Covid-19 guidelines will be strictly adhered to and we will take a firm line to ensure that boxing promoters are following the preventive measures,” he said.

Boxer Salim Chazama described the development as a relief.

“Most of us boxers depend on the sport for a living and it has been really tough for us since government introduced restrictions on public gathering and we cannot wait to return to the ring,” he said.

Setting the tone will be a non-title bout between Chazama and blossoming boxer Grey Chikwapulo at M1 Centre Point in Lilongwe on June 27.

The bout has been organised by Superior Boxing Promotions and the stable’s managing director Japhet Majekete said preparations for the fight are underway.

“We will adhere to the public gathering restrictions, but for the sake of boxing fans, we will maintain the K3 000 entry fee,” he said.

Majekete said the winner of the bout will face Zimbabwean Ndodana Ncube.