Former world champion Holyfield tips Malawi boxing

Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board (MPBCB) president Lonzoe Zimba on Monday shared rare moments with former world champion Evander Holyfield in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Zimba, who is in Baku attending a World Boxing Council (WBC) convention said he has a learnt a lot from the four time world heavyweight champion.

He said: “It was a rare moment for me that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Not only did I take a photo with him but we also discussed on how best we can develop professional boxing in Malawi. I told him about our challenges and the boxing situation in Malawi. He gave me some tips which I think will be very helpful.”

Speaking on MPBCB expectations and contribution to the convention Zimba said Malawi is still in a learning process.

“As you know, it is only recently that we started taking part in these conventions and we are in the learning process. But it is good exposure and I can assure you that professional boxing will improve in Malawi. Boxing is a serious business and we have to employ a great marketing strategy back home,” he said.

Zimba said one of the things he has learned is that the sport can grow if there is good partnership between MPBCB and the corporate world.

Apart from marketing the sport, Zimba said the convention is also about reviewing boxing rules.

“There are a range of issues that we have discussed to ensure the sport continues to thrive. Boxing rules, standards of officiations and that ensuring judges are competent for the good of the game. We have legends in the game from almost all countries and it is an enriching experience,” he said.

Boxing referee Leonard Metazama said he is looking forward to learning from Zimba on revised rules.

“Now that we are having more and more international fights, we need to be updated on new rules and our boxers too need to know the changes that have been made. It is very important. I am sure when he comes back he will give a briefing” he said. n