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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
A ring-rusty Zimbabwean female boxer Monalisa Sibanda, making a return after a two-year sabbatical, has intensified preparations for a rematch against Zambian opponent Lorita Muzeya. The two will clash on November 22 at Lusaka Government Complex in Zambia with several other bouts lined up on the day. Sibanda will be on a revenge mission after she was defeated in the first bout. The once highly-rated boxer said she is geared for a tough challenge and has since started preparing for the fight.
“I did not know Muzeya in the first match and I lost by points which was not very bad,” Sibanda said.

“This time I have started preparing and I have enough time to work on all my weaknesses before next month’s fight. I learnt a lot from the first outing on where I have to improve and I hope I will manage this time,” Sibanda said.

The pugilist, rated ninth in the light-welterweight division in the world, made history by becoming the first local female boxer to fight for a world title.
Sibanda took part in the World International Boxing Association (WIBA) title against Ester Phiri of Zambia.

The Raylton-based boxer, however, appealed to the corporate world to support her during as she aims to lift the Zimbabwe flag high.
“It is my appeal to the corporate world to help me as I intend to win the match so that I can be able to challenge for more honours. The problem is that the sport is not getting support unlike other sports.

“The gloves we use are not very much expensive, but are difficult to get without support from sponsors and at times we are forced to travel a few days before an event and also by road.

“It is so disheartening that we are trying to revive the sport, but young people who have the talent are driven away by the challenges.
“Because of lack of support people now look down upon the sport which I believe can earn them a living if there is support,” said Sibanda.