Mathew Masinge
Gilbert Munetsi
Zimbabwean boxing received a significant boost last week after businessman Kuda Tagwirei fulfilled his pledge to reward the inaugural Trabablas title winner with a brand new Tovota Fortuner, underscoring growing private-sector confidence in the country’s professional fight scene.
Clever Sithole, who claimed the Zimbabwe super-middleweight, crown after outpointing Lawrence Chiyangwa in a keenly contested bout at Phil-Jen Country Lodges in Chivhu last November, was officially handed the vehicle mid last week following the completion of insurance and registration formalities.
Chiyangwa, despite defeat, was also presented with a similar reward in recognition of his role in elevating the landmark contest
Sithole’s victorv, achieved on home soil, earned him the newly introduced Trabablas championship belt and marked a milestone moment for domestic boxing. The title fight -hosted in honour of President Emmerson Mnangagwa – drew high-level political and business attention, with senior ZANU PF officials, including Politburo member Dr Mike Bimha and National Politica Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, in attendance.
Mashonaland East Provincial Chairperson Lincoln Matare last week Monday presented Sithole with his car keys, using the occasion to stress the importance of patience and discipline among athletes while reiterating that commitments made to sportsmen and women must be honoured.
He also called for increased participation by promoters and corporate sponsors, noting that regular competitive opportunities are essential if young fighters are to earn a sustainable living from the sport.
The handover ceremony was witnessed by Sithole’s manager, former world boxing champion Charles Manyuchi, and Clyde Musonda, a co-promoter of the Trabablas tournament-both key figures in efforts to revitalise professional boxing in Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter