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Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]

TWELVE boxers have been selected to represent the country at the inaugural Mandela African Boxing Cup in Durban, South Africa, from April 15 to 21.

Over 360 boxers from 41 countries are expected to trade leather at this tournament being organised by the International Boxing Association (IBA), African Boxing Confederation, and the South African Boxing Organisation.

The tournament was named in honour of former South African President Nelson Mandela.

Local pugilists who made the final cut, were chosen from national tournaments held in Victoria Falls and Mvurwi, according to the Zimbabwe Boxing Federation (ZBF) technical director, Steven Masiyambumbi. In preparation for the Mandela Cup, the local boxers are training in Victoria Falls, with three female boxers at camp.

Zimbabwean boxers are under the watchful eye of head coach Marko Sibanda, with other coaches being Alexander Kwangwari and Tobias Mdimba.

Meanwhile, IBA secretary general Chris Roberts said the tournament was inspirational.

“It is a great pleasure to announce the first edition of the Mandela African Boxing Cup taking place in South Africa, this April 2024. Our decision to name the competition after one of the world’s most inspirational personalities is with reason and great respect.