Maxwell Chimanga
Sports Writer
The sport of Boxing in Zimbabwe dates back to the early 20th century, with accounts of Africans engaging in the sport as early as 1915 in various locations of the budding colonial state.
Boxing was arguably and predominantly one of the most popular and controversial sports in colonial Zimbabwe, with its violence being considered too extreme by the colonial authorities, leading to efforts to tame the sport.
African men in Zimbabwean towns such as Bulawayo and the then Salisbury (now Harare) began participating in boxing increasingly in large numbers.
Previously, under colonial rule women were barred from playing the sport of boxing. As such until recently, there were no females celebrated as heroines of the sport.
The early fights in Mbare did not take place in a boxing ring. There was no boxing ring. Spectators gathered around the fighters and formed a circle, and the
two fighters would fight within that circle.
As the sport developed, rules and laws were formulated to regulate the Sport which was gaining popularity amongst the Africans by the day.
The pre and post colonial era names like, Charles “Striker” Ndlovu, Langton “Schoolboy” Tinago, Ringo Star and Kid Power emerge as the heroes of the sport.
It is the late Proud “Kilimanjaro” Chinembiri who raised the bar of boxing. The moniker Kilimanjaro came about when he conquered Africa in the Heavy Weight division.
What made Boxing prosper then was its popularity amongst the black people and sponsorship. The laws of the country gave concessions to companies who sponsored any sport. As such corporates poured a lot of money in Boxing.
In recent times the sport has produced both heroes and heroins who lift the Zimbabwean flag high. The list includes Charles Manyuchi, Arson Mapfumo, Joe Maphosa, Ambrose Mlilo, Nokuthula Tshabangu, Uk based Derek Chisora, Alfonso Zvenyika Lambarda and Kudakwashe “Take Money Chiwandire”.
Lately Zimbabwe has seen significant moments in boxing history, including a historic visit by boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2023. Mayweather, widely regarded as one of the wealthiest boxers in history, made a grand appearance in Zimbabwe, thrilling the local crowds in Harare.
But the flame that enjoined black people in the sport of Boxing is fading because of lack of sponsorship yet there are some who are still rooted in the sport.
Formed over 5 years ago by Patrick Master and the Late Morgan Maphosa, Legends Boxing Club in Mbare, is a club that has since grown into a hub for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. From young children learning discipline and respect to adults seeking to hone their skills, the club has welcomed everyone with open arms.
“Legends Boxing Club was formed to keep the youths from taking drugs by participating in Boxing.” Patrick Master shared.
So far I have two professional Boxers in my Stable and 8 Amateur Boxers although non of them has represented Zimbabwe in international level.
“The Late great Proud Chinembiri known as Kilimanjaro was my neighbor I used to see him training and fighting that is what lead me to Coach and become a Boxers Manager.”
Every club has its share of success and failures. Patrick Master said that “as Legends Boxing Club we have been successful on taking kids out of the streets as most of them are now interested in our workouts.”
However he stressed that the biggest challenge they have encountered so far as a club is lack of transport to ferry the fighters around.
Since the club is Harare based, they have fights as far as Beitbridge and Victoria falls which makes it difficult to take all Boxers for these tournaments.
The club offers a range of programs tailored to meet different skill levels, from beginners’ classes focused on fundamental techniques to advanced training sessions for those aiming to compete. Members speak highly of the camaraderie and sense of belonging fostered within the club, emphasizing the supportive nature of their fellow boxers and trainers.
“The friendships and bonds formed here go beyond just the sport. It’s a community of people pushing each other to be their best.”
In addition to its focus on boxing the club has also organized community outreach initiatives, Legends Boxing Club has been successful by taking kids out of the streets.
Patrick Master expressed his desire to help the community and provide opportunities for both male and females.
“Since we started our club we have been getting few female Boxers although they have been improvements lately we are still hoping to get more female boxers.”
Whether it’s the sound of gloves hitting the heavy bags or the cheers of encouragement during sparring sessions, the boxing club aims to resonate with a spirit of determination and resilience.
If only the Zimbabwean corporates would lend a penny.
Zim GBC News @2024