MDF release Masamba, Kayuni and Moliati

The Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has released temporarily Wilson Masamba, Osgood Kayuni and Crispin Moliati to allow them fulfil international bouts scheduled for next Saturday.

The three boxers, who were recruited last week, confirmed being released on Friday.

“It is true we have been allowed to fulfil the assignments by MDF authorities. Now, my focus is on the coming bouts,” said Moliati on his arrival in Lilongwe.

The three boxers signed contracts last year as civilians, but were recently recruited into the army.

“This is a special concession considering their case is special, but recruits are not allowed to leave the camp until they are full-fledged soldiers. It is a rule in all defence forces,” said a senior army officer who did not want to be named.

Super Smile Boxing Promotions included Moliati at the last hour to fight to complete a three package boxing bonanza, but Super Smile managing director Saulosi Thindwa was optimistic about the release of the boxers to fulfil their assignments.

“We engaged the MDF in discussions over the issues and at the end logic prevailed,” he said.

Kayuni, a reigning junior welterweight champion, signed a contract with Super Smile Boxing Promotions to fight a non-title bout against Zimbabwean Takudwa Kuchocha, featherweight champion Masamba will fight Richard Muriri, also from Zimbabwe, at Robin’s Park on March 3.

The Kayuni bout is a rematch of one that took place at Motel Paradise in Blantyre last year where Kayuni won through retirement after Kuchocha suffered a dislocated arm.

Kuchocha beat Kenneth Chinthenga and Wellington Balakasi before being stopped by Kayuni.