The Star Continues to Rise, as Milanzi Dazzles Opp...

The Star Continues to Rise, as Milanzi Dazzles Opponent Inside the Ring

Gilbert Munetsi

Zim Now Correspondent

True to his moniker, Starboy, Hassan Milanzi once again illuminated the 7 Arts Theatre ring, successfully defending his World Boxing Federation Inter-Continental Super-Bantamweight title by way of TKO in Round 6 in an electrifying contest.

The victory was only the beginning of a memorable weekend, as he went on to claim the Male Professional Boxer of the Year award the following day—solidifying his status as a formidable force in the ring.

Milanzi faced a determined challenge from Tanzania’s Abdul Kubira, a skilled and relentless competitor.

However, with rigorous preparation, an exceptional support team in his corner, and unwavering resolve, Milanzi proved why he belongs among the elite of Zimbabwean boxing.

Backed by an ecstatic crowd, he showcased a masterclass in skill, endurance, and tactical execution to convincingly outclass his East African opponent.

And in the end the man at the centre of the ring, veteran referee Patrick Mukondiwa, was left with no option but to justifiably stop the match midway through to save Kubura from further punishment.

As the adage goes, fights are won in training, not just in the ring, Milanzi exemplified this by blending power with precision, ensuring his title remained in his grasp.

Overally, the first professional boxing event of 2025, aptly themed "Rise of Champions 5”, was a resounding success.

Ringside seats were sold out well in advance, while a passionate crowd packed the general gallery, eager to witness a spectacle of world-class boxing.

Among the distinguished attendees were Deputy Sports Minister Emily Jesaya, officials from the Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (ZNBWCB) and Howard Goldberg, President of the WBF, who served as match commissioner.

In a riverting WBF super flyweight contest, Tinashe Majoni also from Otto Boxing triumphed over Malawi’s Obbrey Masamba. The Zimbabwean added the feather to his cap by winning by knockout in Round 3.

The co-main event saw Nyasha Hwata successfully defend his national super lightweight title in a grueling 12-round battle against challenger Evans Husavihwevhu, securing victory via a split decision.

Zimbabwean boxing icon Charles Manyuchi did not disappoint, delivering a powerful technical knockout victory against Malawian rival Limbani “The Undertaker” Lano.

While Manyuchi’s experience shone through, his academy fighters experienced mixed fortunes. Alice Mbewe secured a commendable win in her non-title bout versus Loveness Khokha from Malawi, while Husavihwevhu narrowly missed out on the lightweight championship against Hwata.

Freeman Mabvongwe continued his resurgence with a commanding victory over a determined opponent from Bulawayo while former African Boxing Union Lightweight Champion Aliyah “Lantso” Phiri made an emphatic statement on his return, displaying remarkable skill and resilience to defeat his Tanzanian adversary.

His performance was a bold declaration—The Champion is Back!

Results of the other contests are as follows:

- Talent Munda won by S/D against Elson Chidhakwa

- Zvikomborero Chemhere beat Ephraim Dzondisai by U/D

- Shingai Kupani got the better of Privilege Mathuthu

- Nyasha Phiri (w) vs Parson Mutengwa

- Mike Mukariri scored a Technica draw against John Andrew

- Tafadzwa Mushando (w) against Ascot Vavarirai

Meanwhile, boxing on Sunday evening also stole the spotlight at the 2024 Annual National Sports Awards belatedly held at Cresta Lodge, Harare, presided over by new Sports Minister Lt-Gen (Rtd) Anslem Sanyatwe.

The sport claimed three prestigious awards:

- Promoter of the Year– Lindsey Earle of Otto Boxing

- Best Female Boxer– Monica Mkandla (South Africa-based)

- Best Male Boxer – Hassan Milanzi

The recognition of boxing as a standalone category underscores the ZNBWCB’s dedication to elevating the sport under a structured regulatory framework.

Board Chairperson Vee Chibanda affirmed this is just the beginning, with aspirations to secure even more categories in future editions of ANSA.

With milestones like these, Zimbabwean boxing is on an upward trajectory, and if "Rise of Champions 5” is any indication, the future is nothing short of electrifying!