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CLYDE Musonda, a Harare- based professional boxing promoter believes now is the time to revive boxing in the country. Musonda who had a colourful career in the amateur ranks, said Zimbabwe has good talent that can match any in the world.
He said good boxers lacked support and as such could not compete at international level.
He said unlike in the past when boxing would attract crowds bigger than some Premiership clubs at stadia, the sport was now gasping for breath.
Musonda said boxers, their trainers and promoters were however hopeful that a rescue package would be availed.
“It’s been all gloom for the sport for a long time now. That, however, has not stopped us from going into the gym to prepare for the future. The passion is evidently there for anyone to see but the challenge is getting the much needed support.
“Our boxers are going for ages without fights. That is not a healthy situation, champions must prove themselves in the ring. It’s every boxer’s desire to fight as many times to improve his quality,” said the Harare-based promoter.
He said when a boxer gets a fight after a long time without a fight, he was at a disadvantage.
Musonda called on promoters to ensure their boxers are registered with the Zimbabwe Board of Boxing Control.
Charles Manyuchi the World Boxing Council Africa (welterweight) champion, Thamsanqa Dube the reigning World Boxing Association (Africa) champion and Tineyi Maridzo are some of the local boxers that have shone on the international scene in recent years.
Musonda said they’re too many youngsters yet to be discovered who could in future compete internationally.
Online Reporter