Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda-Zimpapers Sports Hub
AFTER 20 days of grieving, the late Ndodana Ncube’s family and friends will finally get some measure of closure, as the body is finally being repatriated back to Zimbabwe.
Ncube, a former Zimbabwe boxing champion who was popularly known as “Black Hammer”, died in South Africa on May 16, from injuries sustained during a fight.
His body is now expected to leave South Africa around 4pm today, ahead of burial in Jambezi, Hwange, on Sunday.
Ncube’s sister Stembekhile Ndlovu confirmed the development.
The repatriation was delayed by post-mortem examinations which were finally concluded on Wednesday.
“It’s been a long process, but I can confirm that Ndodana’s body will leave South Africa on Friday afternoon.
“Burial is on Sunday in Jambezi, Hwange,” said Ndlovu.
According to reports, a South African boxing promoter Jane Lubisi of Ilanga Boxing Promotions, in collaboration with Boxing South Africa, has promised to provide a 13-seater bus for mourners and grave-side equipment.
The local boxing fraternity, including Government officials, are expected to attend the funeral of a boxer who was regarded as one of the best of his generation.
He was sent into a coma after a fight promoted by Ilanga Boxing Promotions at the Eastdene Community Hall in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, South Africa, on March 27.
Ncube spent close to two months in the Intensive Care Unit before his tragic death on May 16.
A former national super-featherweight champion, Ncube collapsed in the ring soon after winning against Lunga Stimela in Middelburg.
He left behind a record of 11-8-3.
The Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (ZNBWCB), together with the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, have already extended their condolences.
“His passing on is a profound loss to the boxing fraternity, the wider sporting community and the nation at large,” wrote the ZNBWCB soon after Ncube’s death.
“Ndodana will be remembered for his dedication, courage, discipline and contribution to the sport of boxing in Zimbabwe.”
