Boxing bill called off

THE Deltaforce Boxing Promotions bill that was set for Bulawayo on Friday evening to seal the National Youth Day Celebrations did not take place after another shoddy job by the promoters.

They failed to secure funding for the event that had so much vibe and had boxers coming from as far as Botswana and Malawi.

With no assurances of that boxers would be paid their purses since promoters had failed to deposit the money into the board account, acting boxing board of control chief executive officer Priscilla Kadungure issued a statement calling off the tournament.

“The Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (ZNBWCB) regrets to announce the cancellation of the highly anticipated boxing tournament that was set to take place today in Bulawayo.

“This decision has been made following the promoter’s failure to provide the required purse money, which is essential for the fighters’ compensation and the overall integrity of the event. The ZNBWCB prioritises the welfare of athletes and adheres to strict regulations to ensure fair and professional conduct in the sport.

“We understand the disappointment this may cause to fans, athletes, and stakeholders who were looking forward to this event. The ZNBWCB remains committed to promoting boxing in Zimbabwe and will continue to work towards organizing events that uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability,” read the board statement.

Asked for comment on the postponement and shambolic organisation, the Deltaforce boss, Clyde Musonda, said everything had worked fine until the last minute.

“Our sponsor who I cannot mention had made all assurances that he would deliver his side of the bargain.

We even opted to bring a 6mx6m ring for professional boxing from Harare because everything was in order. We had boxers at a hotel and medical matters done here in Bulawayo. But unfortunately at the last minute, our sponsor was no longer picking up our calls. We are in the process of ensuring that all boxers and officials go back to their respective bases,” said Musonda.

It is a regulatory requirement that promoters after applying for permission to host the event, they deposit contracts and purse money with the board.
That was not done.

Musonda said it was on the significance of the occasion that there were short cuts and everything was done in good faith only to be let down at the last minute.

“I would like to apologise to everyone concerned about what happened. Yes, we are aware of the procedures, it was our wish the sport be exposed to a big crowd and have something for our Bulawayo professional boxing fans, but sadly it would not be.

“I assure Bulawayo fans, we will make it up to them. We would love to stage a professional boxing tournament here, there has not been a tournament since 2012,” said Musonda who has been working hard to get local boxers exposed in the region.

The main bout was the Arifonso Zvenyika Jnr and Hilary Josamu bantamweight title contest.

Phekie Bhele, Kudakwashe Chiwandire and Sehliselwe Nhliziyo were among female boxers expected to participate in the tournament.

International referee and judge Patrick Mukondiwa was to be in charge of the main fight.