And the new….Shungu Kupani (C) is flanked by former WBC silver champion Charles Manyuchi, Lindsay Earle and ZNBWCB CEO Priscilla Kadungure as he showcases his new super-bantamweight national title
Gilbert Munetsi – Zim Now Writer
Bongani Makovora last night lived to his prediction by cruising over his Malawian opponent, Musa Kananji, to be crowned the new World Boxing Federation Africa bantamweight champion.
His victory was attained on a card that also saw Shungu Kupani get crowned as the new Zimbabwe super-bantamweight champion after accounting for Masvingo-based Fania Musekwa in the main supporting bout.
And has been the tradition over the past five editions, Rise of The Champions 6 – promoted by Otto Boxing and staged at 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale, Harare - lived to its billing, attracting a great crowd that was kept on the edges of its seats by scintillating boxing action throughout the event.
But in what turned out to be the showstopper of the night, Tinashe “Mr Jones” Majoni stunned fans and pundits alike with a ruthless second-round TKO over Zambia’s Moses Banda in their international super flyweight contest.
Though listed as an undercard to the main event, the Majoni–Banda duel delivered the most electrifying action of the evening, leaving the packed theatre in awe of the Zimbabwean’s speed, precision, and finishing power.
From the first bell, Majoni dictated the pace, cutting off the ring and peppering Banda with crisp combinations that showcased both skill and confidence. Banda, a seasoned campaigner known for his grit, tried to weather the storm and mount counters of his own, but Majoni’s relentless pressure was simply overwhelming.
The fight reached its dramatic climax in the second round when Majoni unleashed a furious flurry that left Banda reeling against the ropes. The referee had no option but to step in and halt the contest, awarding Majoni a technical knockout victory to the delight of the roaring crowd.
“This is only the beginning,” a jubilant Majoni said after the fight. “I’ve been working hard for this moment, and to claim international triumph at home, in front of my people, is truly special. Banda was tough, but I knew I had the power and the plan to stop him.”
Banda, sporting a swollen eye, graciously acknowledged his conqueror. “He was faster and stronger tonight. I gave my best, but Majoni deserves this win,” the Zambian admitted.
Promoters and fans alike were unanimous in declaring the bout the most entertaining of the evening. Despite being billed as an undercard, Majoni’s performance lit up the theatre and injected fresh excitement into Zimbabwean boxing.
With this emphatic victory, Majoni not only claimed his international super flyweight status, but also staked his claim as one of the country’s most promising talents on the rise. If last night’s explosive display is anything to go by, the boxing world should brace itself for more fireworks from the young star.
Meanwhile, principal sponsor of the tournament, Lindsay Earle, took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of professionalism among judges, particularly in international contests staged in Zimbabwe.
Her comments were with regards to the loss by champion prospect Aliyah Phiri, via a unanimous verdict, to Congolese Jonathan Lotango in an international lightweight bout over eight rounds. Said Earle:
“We must always uphold fairness and integrity in the sport. Even when a home boxer loses against an opponent from another country, our judges must remain impartial. Only then can we build credibility and attract more international bouts to our shores.”
Other results on the night saw:
- Zvikomborero Chemhere defeat Yusuf Ali
- Hilton win by unanimous decision against Talent Munda
- Alfonso Zvenyika Jnr outpoint Ephraim Dzingisai via UD
- Tafadzwa Mushando secure a UD victory over Yohane Banda
- Shungu stop Fania Musekwa with a knockout in round 7
- Mike Mukariri earn a UD against Hillary Kataya
- Freeman Mabvongwe knock out Charles Musanji in round 3
- Aliya lose by UD to Jonathan Lotango
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