True to his moniker, Starboy, Hassan Milanzi once again dazzled under the bright lights of the 7 Arts Theatre ring, successfully defending his World Boxing Federation (WBF) Inter-Continental Super-Bantamweight title with a sixth-round TKO victory over Tanzania’s Abdul Kubira.
His triumph was only the start of a remarkable weekend, as he went on to be crowned Male Professional Boxer of the Year the following evening, further solidifying his status as one of Zimbabwe’s finest boxing talents.
Kubira proved to be a determined challenger, bringing relentless energy to the bout. However, Milanzi, backed by meticulous preparation and a dedicated support team, showcased superior skill, endurance, and tactical prowess. With an ecstatic home crowd cheering him on, he dominated his opponent, prompting veteran referee Patrick Mukondiwa to stop the fight in Round 6 to prevent further punishment.
The event, Rise of Champions 5, marked the first major professional boxing showcase of 2025 and was a resounding success. Ringside seats sold out well in advance, while a passionate crowd filled the general gallery, eager to witness high-caliber boxing. Among the notable attendees were Deputy Sports Minister Emily Jesaya, Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (ZNBWCB) officials, and WBF President Howard Goldberg, who served as the match commissioner.
The night also featured several thrilling bouts. In the WBF super flyweight division, Zimbabwe’s Tinashe Majoni secured an emphatic Round 3 knockout victory over Malawi’s Obbrey Masamba. Meanwhile, Nyasha Hwata defended his national super lightweight title in a grueling 12-round contest against Evans Husavihwevhu, winning via split decision.
Veteran Zimbabwean boxing icon Charles Manyuchi delivered a statement victory, securing a technical knockout against Malawian opponent Limbani “The Undertaker” Lano. However, Manyuchi’s academy fighters had mixed results. Alice Mbewe secured a victory in her non-title bout against Malawi’s Loveness Khokha, while Husavihwevhu fell short against Hwata in the lightweight title match.
Other notable performances included Freeman Mabvongwe’s dominant win and former African Boxing Union Lightweight Champion Aliyah “Lantso” Phiri’s triumphant return, where he displayed resilience and skill to defeat his Tanzanian opponent, declaring that The Champion is Back!
Additional Fight Results
- Talent Munda defeated Elson Chidhakwa by split decision
- Zvikomborero Chemhere won by unanimous decision against Ephraim Dzondisai
- Shingai Kupani bested Privilege Mathuthu
- Nyasha Phiri won against Parson Mutengwa
- Mike Mukariri and John Andrew’s bout ended in a technical draw
- Tafadzwa Mushando secured victory against Ascot Vavarirai
Boxing continued to make headlines beyond the ring, stealing the spotlight at the 2024 Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA), held at Cresta Lodge in Harare and presided over by new Sports Minister Lt-Gen (Rtd) Anslem Sanyatwe.
The sport claimed three prestigious awards:
- Promoter of the Year – Lindsey Earle (Otto Boxing)
- Best Female Boxer – Monica Mkandla (South Africa-based)
- Best Male Boxer – Hassan Milanzi
The recognition of boxing as a standalone category reflects the ZNBWCB’s commitment to elevating the sport under a structured regulatory framework. Board Chairperson Vee Chibanda expressed optimism for the future, aiming to secure even more categories in upcoming editions of ANSA.
With performances like those seen at Rise of Champions 5, Zimbabwean boxing is on an upward trajectory, and the future promises even greater excitement for the sport.
