Sports update

Mwale Poised for WBC Bantamweight Showdown in Historic Lusaka Boxing Event

Zambia’s own David Mwale, already celebrated as the reigning African Boxing Union (ABU) Bantamweight Champion, is set to make history this February by challenging for the coveted World Boxing Council (WBC) Bantamweight Title. This championship match, anticipated to bring both adrenaline and pride to local fans, will be the highlight of an international boxing gala hosted in Lusaka, projected to cost 1.2 million Kwacha.

In what is expected to be one of Zambia’s most thrilling sporting events of the decade, the tournament will feature Mwale’s title bout as the main event, supported by eight other intense undercard matchups. Mwale's WBC challenger will be announced after the WBC convention in Germany this December, where his promoter, Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions’ Manager Christopher Malunga, will work to secure the best match-up for the national champion.

"Our hope is that this bout not only brings glory to Zambia but also sparks new interest in boxing among our youth," Malunga shared at a press conference today in Lusaka. His excitement mirrored the growing buzz surrounding Zambia’s boxing scene as Mwale’s local fans prepare for a chance to witness him reach global heights on home soil.

Adding to the night’s excitement, former World Champion Catherine Phiri will be making a highly anticipated return to the ring. Known for her resilience and exceptional skill, Phiri will face off against Democratic Republic of Congo’s fierce contender Nkongolo Buyuyu in a featherweight matchup. With this mix of new talent and veteran prowess, the Lusaka tournament is shaping up to be an unforgettable showcase of Zambian and African boxing excellence.

Both David Mwale’s and Catherine Phiri’s bouts promise to reignite the spirit of Zambian boxing and draw fans from across the country. February's fight night will mark not just a milestone for these athletes, but also an inspiring moment for young Zambians aspiring to become champions themselves.

INTENSE PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR ANGOLA AND IMMAF AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

The fight camp is in full swing as athletes gear up for the upcoming International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) African Championships in Angola, just two weeks away. Local fighters are brimming with determination, driven by the desire to not only represent their country with zeal but also to bring home medals and deliver their best performances.

Prior to the commencement of the camp, MMA Zambia had a significant meeting with the Ministry of Sports and Arts to delve into the future of sports and highlight the successes achieved thus far. In particular, they discussed the impending IMMAF - International Mixed Martial Arts Federation Africa Championships, which are set to be hosted by the Federação Angolana de MMA in Angola.

MMA Zambia emphasized the remarkable platform this tournament provides for athletes, opening doors to the World Championships and international exposure. The Honourable Minister of Sports and Arts expressed strong commitment to utilizing sports as a means to uplift the youth and tackle the challenges they face, especially in terms of poverty alleviation. The Ministry acknowledged MMA Zambia's developmental strategy as addressing these issues while promoting economic development and corporate sector engagement.

MMA Zambia representatives were gratified to receive high praise from the Permanent Secretary for their past events, both in terms of athlete performance and production quality. They were equally delighted to hear the Honourable Minister express his unwavering support for the athletes' participation in the upcoming Africa Championships in Angola. This collaborative effort aims to empower athletes and contribute positively to the development of sports in Zambia.