Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
MONICA Mkandla, the newly crowned World Boxing Association Pan Africa Bantamweight Champion, might surprise you with her origin story. This 25-year-old Zimbabwean boxer, now based in South Africa, didn’t lace up gloves with dreams of glory. It all began at the age of 13, in the hallways of Gwanda High School.
Facing the challenge of bullies, Mkandla joined a boxing class in 2013, seeking self-defence skills in Form 1. Little did she know, she would discover a hidden talent. What started as a practical measure blossomed into a passion.
In 2014, Mkandla stepped into the ring for the Youth Games, representing Matabeleland South province. She didn’t just participate; she dominated, claiming the gold medal and sparking a remarkable winning streak. Throughout her school years, the Youth Games became her proving ground, where she secured a staggering six gold medals in boxing.
By 2016, with her O-levels complete, Mkandla channelled all her focus into training. Her sights were set on the professional arena. During her amateur career, she amassed an impressive record — 65 fights, 61 victories.
Now known by the powerful moniker “Savage”, Mkandla recently reached a new peak. In a Johannesburg bout, she emerged victorious against Egine Kayange of Tanzania, claiming the coveted WBA Pan Africa Bantamweight title. This win marks her sixth professional victory, solidifying her undefeated record since turning pro in August 2022.
“I started boxing in 2013 when I was doing my Form One at Gwanda High School. I was bullied at high school and I joined the boxing class in order to acquire self-defence skills. My coach realised that I had a talent in boxing and he focused on coaching me more. The bullying I faced was from upper grades who were targeting Form One learners.
“We were about 20 in our boxing class and as far as I know I’m the only one who took up boxing as a career. After attending a couple of training sessions I knew that was what I wanted to do. After participating in the Youth Games in 2014 I got respect from my school mates but I never used my skills to hurt anyone or intimidate anyone,” she said.
Initially, Mkandla’s mother wasn’t thrilled about her boxing aspirations. However, after witnessing her daughter’s talent and dedication in the ring, her concerns melted away into unwavering support.
In 2018, Mkandla relocated to Bulawayo to train at Nketa Gym, further honing her skills. She then made a temporary move to South Africa in 2021 before returning to Zimbabwe in 2022.
Her professional debut came in August 2022, and Mkandla wasted no time making a statement. She secured a victory against Malawian boxer Sasha Mlambo at the Charles Manyuchi Academy boxing tournament in Chivhu, claiming her first professional win. This impressive debut was quickly followed by another triumph, defeating South Africa’s Nomusa Ngema in an international bantamweight fight at the ESPN Africa Boxing 20 in Johannesburg.
This victory marked a major milestone in Mkandla’s young professional career.
“My first professional fight was a turning point for me as I was advancing from the amateur level. It meant that I was now competing at international level. I was nervous about this match as I had taken a two-year gap because of Covid-19. I had little time to train and get back in shape but achieving my target of being a champion is what motivated me.
“My August 25, 2022 fight was against a very tough opponent but I was up to the task. My performance during that match earned me so much respect in the boxing circles in South Africa and that’s where I got the name “Savage”. People say I look harmless from the outside but when I fight the beast in me is unleashed and I become savage,” she said.
Maintaining her momentum, Mkandla continued to rack up victories in the professional ring. Her third professional bout saw her defeat Zimbabwean boxer Mitchel Mubaya in South Africa. The win was followed by another triumph against South African fighter Sazisiwe Simon at the “ESPN Africa Boxing 22” event on October 27, 2022. Most recently, on July 21 of this year, Mkandla faced off against fellow Zimbabwean Pamela Mutanga in a non-title junior featherweight bout, emerging victorious.
The ultimate challenge, however, awaited her. To claim the coveted WBA Pan Africa Bantamweight Championship, Mkandla would have to overcome the experience and skill of Egine Kayange from Tanzania.
“When I went against Egine Kayange she had fought 16 fights with 10 wins. Of her 10 wins seven of them were knockouts. I didn’t have as much experience as her as I had only five fights. Of my five fights I didn’t win any by knockout. My fight against Egine Kayange became my first win by knockout.
“I changed my game strategy in this fight. I’m known for frequent punches but this time around I was calmer but I ensured that each punch had power,” she said.
With a world ranking of #28 and a burning ambition, Mkandla sets her sights on the ultimate prize — a world championship title. She attributes her success to a rigorous training regimen, unwavering dedication, and laser focus.
Mkandla doesn’t just inspire with her victories; she also serves as a role model for young athletes. She encourages aspiring talents to pursue their dreams in sports, highlighting the importance of hard work and discipline.
Furthermore, Mkandla stresses the importance of staying away from drugs, highlighting the positive path that lies ahead for those who choose dedication over destructive habits. – @DubeMatutu.
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