Gilbert Munetsi Sports Correspondent
THE contingent of Zimbabwean boxers participating in the international boxing bill in Zambia yesterday underwent a weigh-in at the Southern Sun Ridgeway Hotel amid high expectations of better performances this time around.Monalisa Sibanda and Anyway Katunga are fighting Zambian opponents as under-cards in the World Boxing Council international welterweight and the bantamweight silver title defences scheduled for the Government Complex in Lusaka tonight.

In the main draw card, Charles Manyuchi fights Deivis Casseres of Colombia, while Zambia’s female boxing sensation Catherine Phiri has a date with South African boxer Bukiwe Nonina.

Traditionally, Zimbabwean boxers have failed to carry the day as was the case last March when Chamunorwa Gonorenda, Takudzwa Kuchocha and Sibanda were all beaten by their Zambian opponents in their supporting bouts.

Yesterday, Sibanda was in high spirits, vowing to avenge her sixth round defeat to Lorita Muzeya on March 15.

The two will be battling in a rematch over the same number of rounds.

“There were a number of factors that made me fall to Muzeya then. I had a lot of ring rust and I hadn’t taken time to study my opponent,” said Monalisa.

“This time it will be a different story altogether as I am prepared up for my loss to her then.”

She enters the ring as the better experienced boxer at 11 fights compared to Muzeya’s three.

Katunga’s coach Alfonso Zvenyika preferred not to comment on his camp’s preparations and expectations.

Manyuchi is expected to carry the day for Zimbabwe and said he will be aiming for a knock-out.

“I have all the advantage on my side and they include a supportive home crowd. Zambia is my second home and I continue to enjoy the country’s backing and hospitality.

“I’m also the current title holder and am not willing to surrender it tomorrow (today) or any other time soon. It will be no easy stroll in the park for Casseres. Boxing fans should also expect the best in me. I’ve left no stone unturned in my preparation for the fight.”

A local transport company, C.A.G Buses, has offered complementary travel for three sports journalists to cover the fight.

“We have an obligation to enable boxing fans in Zimbabwe to get first hand reportage from their own journalists,” said Samson Nanhanga, a director of the company.

 

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