Zambians in no-show at boxing tournament

Ellina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Boxing Federation invitational tournament held in Bulawayo was once again a flop after the Zambians that were set to take part failed to turn up at Manor Hotel. Last month the national federation hosted another Open tournament that failed to live up to expectations as most of the invited fighters failed to attend.

The tournament was expected to feature top boxers from Zambia and Zimbabwe but it ended up attracting only local fighters.
ZBF technical director Petros Masiyambumbi said the Zambians failed to get clearance in their country.

“The Zambians failed to get clearance, I think there was communication breakdown but we are still considering liaising with them for our other upcoming tournaments.

“They only notified us on Saturday that they were no longer coming,” said Masiyambumbi.

Masiyambumbi said despite the failure by the Zambians to attend Saturday’s event they had some good fights from the local fighters with Bulawayo dominating the competition.

Shepherd Machaya beat Kudakwashe Chawakura of Midlands in the flyweight category on points.
Samson Masiymabumbi went on to beat Alexander Chiya of Midlands in the lightweight division.

Cecil Toto beat Talent Chimwanda of Mashonaland East in the welterweight section. ZNA were second followed by Matabeleland South third.

The ZBF technical director said they had the opportunity to assess some of the boxers they are considering for the Zone Six Games.

“Initially we wanted to have the tournament in Harare but we had some problems getting a ring so we moved to Bulawayo and despite the shot notice we had seven provinces attending.

“The competition was good and we had the opportunity to asses our fighters for the Zone Six,” said Masiyambumbi. The national federation was also scheduled to hold their annual meeting but it failed to take place as some of the members didn’t come. Masiyambumbi said they are now considering having the meeting next month.

“There are some issues that need to be corrected. We feel some things are not going on well within the association,” said Masiyambumbi.