Fireworks Set to Ignite as Rise of the Champions 6...

Fireworks Set to Ignite as Rise of the Champions 6 Captivates 7 Arts Theatre

Ali “Otto” Phiri, the architect of the Rise of the Champions series

Gilbert Munetsi - Zim Now Writer

Tonight, the 7 Arts Theatre transforms into an electrifying arena of raw power and national pride as Rise of the Champions 6 captivates boxing fans across the capital and beyond.

Promoted by Otto Boxing Promotions, this highly anticipated tournament has swiftly become a continental spectacle for professional boxing talent. Most of the participating fighters met the weight at weigh-in yesterday morning, at which event WBF president Howard Goldberg was present.

At the heart of tonight’s action is the fiercely-contested WBF Africa Bantamweight Title bout between Zimbabwe’s formidable Bongani Makovora and Malawi’s seasoned warrior Musa Kananji. Both fighters exuded unwavering confidence and promised an explosive encounter.

“I’ve trained with relentless focus,” Makovora declared on the sidelines of yesterday’s weigh in and press conference, his eyes blazing with determination. “Zimbabweans will witness a swift victory. Kananji won’t make it past the sixth round—this title is coming home.”

Kananji, speaking through translator coach Leonard Kazikunema, countered with steely resolve: “Your boy is just a big mouth, but experience and grit tell a different story. The WBF Africa belt stays with me. I guarantee this fight ends early—and Makovora will be the one counting the stars.”

Adding to the excitement, the National Super Bantamweight Title will be fiercely contested between two tenacious warriors, Shungu Kupani and Fania Musekwa. Kupani vowed fireworks from the opening bell, while Musekwa vowed to overturn all expectations.

The tournament is more than just a battle for titles; it represents the pinnacle of Zimbabwean boxing ambition and a unifying force for the continent. Fighters have flown in from Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, signaling Rise of the Champions as a premier international boxing platform.

Lindsey Earle, principal sponsor of Otto Boxing Promotions and the 2024 Boxing Promoter of the Year, emphasized the importance of perseverance and professionalism in elevating the sport.

“Consistent dedication and professionalism are the pillars that sustain boxing’s growth. Supporting this sport goes beyond trophies; it’s about nurturing talent and inspiring nations. We are committed to building a legacy where boxing thrives not only as a sport but as a profession,” Earle affirmed.

The Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board also underscored the significance of the event in advancing the sport locally and regionally, praising the commitment of corporate partners and stakeholders.

“Tomorrow evening at the 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale, the spotlight will be on two incredible matchups that highlight the growth and ambition of professional boxing in our country.

“These fights are a testament to the incredible talent and fierce competitive spirit that exists right here at home. The success of the Rise of the Champions series is sustained by strong corporate partnerships.

“This series is no longer just a domestic professional boxing tournament; it is a continental event for boxing talent” said ZNBWCB CEO Priscilla Kadungure in a speech read on her behalf by Programmes Manager Moreways Changa.

As the evening unfolds beneath the spotlight at 7 Arts Theatre, fans can expect nothing less than fierce competition, national pride, and the undeniable emergence of tomorrow’s champions.