Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub Reporter
A GLUT of international professional boxers, including a United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean pugilist, will land in the country today, ahead of Saturday’s Independence boxing tournament at the City Sports Centre.
Dzikamai Joseph Maphosa might be 34 and still searching for a major title, but the UK-based Zimbabwean has an appetising record and should be one of the boxers to look out for on Saturday.
The flyweight boxer arrives in Harare with a decent 15-1-1 record, having also not lost in his last seven bouts.
His opponent Aubrey Masamba of Malawi is also expected in Harare today.
Maphosa and Masamba will square up in a non-title international bout.
Chris Joshua Kazadi (DR Congo) and Gabriel Shimweefelen of Namibia are also expected to touch down at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport this afternoon.
A top referee and judge from France is also expected for the Independence boxing tournament that has been put up by Delta Force.
The boxing bonanza will also be an opportunity for some local boxers like Kudakwashe Chiwandire to revive their careers.
Chiwandire will take on Patience Masitara for the women’s national featherweight title.
Their contest will be the main supporting bout for main event featuring Zvikomborero Chamhere and Marlon Chivero who are gunning for the national super-featherweight title.
“It’s all going according to plan,” said Clyde Musonda of Delta Force, the stable that’s put up this tournament.
“Most of the international boxers arrive on Wednesday, the same day we expect Zimbabwean boxers from South Africa.
“Preparations are going on well.
“We want to make this tournament not only one to remember, but one that will also open opportunities for boxers.
“We are also expecting Donald Kapamba from Zambia and Emily Kubwalo who is based in South Africa,” added Musonda.
Bulawayo-based Sehlisiwe Nhliziyo has a rare chance to showcase her talent in the capital as she is billed to fight Revai Madondo.
Other local boxers on the bout card include former World Boxing Federation champion Tinashe Madziwane and reigning Trabablas champion Clever Sithole.
“It’s an exciting bout card with some appetising matches,” said Musonda.
