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Tadious Manyepo, Sports Reporter

GOVERNMENT have pledged more support to boxer Aliya Phiri who successfully defended his African Boxing Union (ABU) lightweight title on Saturday.

Phiri showed a lot of industry and tenacity to dislodge his Tanzanian challenger Saidi Mkola via a Unanimous points Decision in a gruelling 12-round bout at 7 Arts Theatre in Harare.

The win left him in a good space and he could be in line to challenge for the more lucrative and prestigious World Boxing Council Africa title which will eventually pave the way for the WBC World belt.

Speaking after witnessing the tight contest, Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya said Phiri is primed to excel in his future tournaments and the Government was ready to suppory him.

“Boxing, just like any other sport is important to us as Government. It is in pursuance of National Strategy 1 which specifically looks at mass participation,” said Jesaya.

“We are happy for our own Aliya Phiri who we would like to congratulate for successfully defending the ABU title.

“He showed his athleticism and industry in a really tough match. He defended the country’s badge with professionalism and commendable spirit. His future is bright and he should be rest assured that Government is fully behind him.

“He is indeed an inspiration to other upcoming boxers.”

Jesaya said spory was important as it contributes to the country’s GDP through tourism and other related areas.

“We are also fullfilling the sports tourism and diplomacy policy that we have in place. We have seen foreigners coming into the country for this tournament.

“As Government, we want to ensure that boxing and other sports grow in this country.

“We would like a situation whereby boxing is run like a business.”

The fight was attended by the who is who in boxing circles including the Zimbabwe National Wrestling and Boxing Control Board Vee Chibanda, the acting Chief Executive Officer Priscilla Kadungure, former WBC silver welterweight champion Charles Manyuchi and pioneering female boxer Monalisa Sibanda among others.

Phiri’s coach, Ali Otto Phiri, who is also his coach/manager hailed Zimbabweans who came in their numbers to witness the fight.

“Boxing is growing in stature and status. I would like to salute every one who came to witness this grand fight,” he said.

“We trained well and this is the result. It wasn’t an easy match but at the end of the day we prevailed. I am very happy for the win and we are already looking into the future.”

The fight was promoted by Lindsay Earle.