Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE era in which boxers would go bankrupt after retirement could be over following a resolution by the Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board to introduce a Benevolent Fund to cater for their needs after they are done with their careers.
ZNBWC chief executive Priscila Kadungure said they are moving in to cushion pugilists and Mixed Martial Arts fighters after retirement.
Kadungure said this after officially receiving boxers Peter Pambeni and Partson Mutengwa who brought home WABA Supreme titles from a tournament they took part in, last weekend in Kitwe, Zambia.
The pair’s belts brought this year’s title collection from international bouts to 12, which was the ZNBWCB’s target for the rest of this year.
While hailing the two’s exploits, Kadungure said the board was well aware of its mandate to also look at the social welfare of the athletes, especially in light of the recent passing on of boxer Ndodana Ncube after sustaining injuries in a fight he won in South Africa.
“We have come to the realisation that combat sport is a profession that needs cover just like any other profession out there,” said Kadungure.
“We are setting up a Benevolent Fund in which the athletes contribute their savings and from where they will then get lump sums and pension when they retire or suffer permanent injuries.
“We have learnt a lot from the past. We have seen boxers, with big names going broke after retirement and even getting to the extent of depression and the like.
“Recently, we lost one of our boxers, Ndodana Ncube. That has opened our eyes to say, no, everyone should have something in their savings. On Ndodana, we would also like to thank the Government who gave him a lump sum and Boxing South Africa who also chipped in with something for the family.”
Kadungure added that the board has clinched a deal with a renowned funeral services company to provide funeral cover at a significant discount to the athletes.
