Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
IN 2002, Joseph Maphosa left Zimbabwe for the United Kingdom as a fresh-faced and unheralded young boy, whose family had migrated to Europe.
Yesterday, he returned home as a 31-year-old international boxer who was welcomed by scores of boxing supporters at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Maphosa is back to feature in his first fight in Zimbabwe.
He will square up against Aubrey Masamba of Malawi in a flyweight non-title fight at the City Sports on Saturday.
The bout is part of the Independence boxing gala that will feature an assortment of local and international boxers.
Maphosa arrives in Harare with a decent 15-1-1 record, having also not lost in his last seven bouts.
“It’s really amazing to be back home and fight for my people,” said Maphosa soon after touching down.
“I am ready to put on a great fight.
“I also want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa for giving us this opportunity and the other boxers who will fight.
“I am ready to fight, expect some good live action,” added Maphosa.
Masamba was also expected in the country yesterday.
Former World Boxing Council Interim Super Bantamweight champion Kudakwashe Chiwandire will also fight on the night.
She will take on Patience Masitara for the national featherweight title.
The fight will be the main supporting bout for main event featuring Zvikomborero Chamhere and Marlon Chivero who are gunning for the national Super Featherweight title.
The Independence boxing tournament has been put up by Delta Force and will also see some top local pugilists like Tinashe Madziwane, Clever Sithole and Monalisa “Queen of the Jungle” Sibanda taking part.
“We are happy with the preparations.
“Smoking Joe (Maphosa) is here, and he is raring to go,” said Clyde Musonda of Delta Force. Weigh-in is set for tomorrow before the tournament roars to life on Saturday night.
Peter Tanyanyiwa