Sibanda’s fight date changed

The fight has now been set for 17 February in Lusaka after being switched from the proposed date of February 25 in Ndola.
Boris Zneider, the promoter for Bitcon Black Fists Boxing stable, who is managing Sibanda, yesterday said they were informed that the fight has now been brought forward.
“The fight keeps changing.

“Now we are told it’s on17 February , which should be a Friday.
“We are no longer going to fight in Ndola but in Lusaka and we are at least happy because it’s nearer.
“Above all, Monalisa enjoys some support in Lusaka and I am sure she will be focused,” said Zneider.

The female pugilists will trade leather in the light welterweight division for the Women International Boxing Organisation and the Women International Boxing Association belts.
Currently, Phiri holds the WIBA belt while the WIBO crown is vacant.
The fight had initially been slatted for East London, South Africa, in August last year but was then slotted for 21 January, 2012 at Mulungushi Conference Centre in Lusaka.

However, the bout was deferred to February 25 before the latest changes.
Zneider is hopeful that his boxer will become the first Zimbabwean woman to bring home a world title.
“The winner will get the two belts and I am sure Monalisa will do well because she has been training hard in South Africa and now is back home,” said Zneider.

Sibanda was yesterday working out at Raylton Sports Club in the capital. “I am ready for the fight and I will not be distracted by all the changes in dates and venues. Maybe it’s a ploy but mentally, I remain strong,” said Sibanda.

Sibanda last fought a professional fight in 2009 when she beat Queen Tshabalala of South Africa before she took a sabbatical from the square ring.
The two boxers have met twice before in non-title fights in October 2005 with Sibanda winning both bouts.
Phiri, who is a legend is Zambia, is coached by Antony Mwamba of Exodus Boxing and once invited Sibanda to be her sparring partner.