MILLICENT HUNGWE
The Zimbabwe Boxing Federation (ZBF) partnered with Zvishavane Boxing Academy, also known as Winners Boxing Academy, recently in hosting a successful national boxing tournament.
The national tournament was held on April 26, 2025 at Shisha Shaft from 3pm until Sunday morning.
The academy, led by coaches Solani Johns and Tanaka Ethan Nguvo, consists of 20 active boxers and has been a hub for boxing development in the region since its launch in 2021.
The tournament, a selection event for Region 5, drew participants from seven provinces, with 140 boxers competing in 70 bouts.
The Midweek Watch confirmed that this marked a significant milestone for the town’s boxing community, as it was the first time in 15 to 20 years that Zvishavane had hosted such an event.
Out of the 10 boxers from the academy who participated, 6 emerged victorious, including Brian Chiuya, an Economics and Finance level 4.2 student at Great Zimbabwe University.
Chiuya expressed his happiness after winning, saying, “My opponent’s name was Bradley Bikwa from Tshaka Boxing Club. I fought in the lightweight category and did well.”
Despite the lack of external sponsorship, the tournament’s success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the academy’s coaches and boxers.
This event not only showcases the talent and potential of Zimbabwean boxers but also highlights the importance of community support for sports development.
Meanwhile, the academy now faces a logistical challenge of transporting the boxing ring back to Bulawayo.
With a deadline looming, the academy is seeking assistance with transportation to ensure the ring’s safe return, as coach Solani noted.
