The death of Zimbabwean boxer Ndodana Ncube has continued to send shockwaves across the regional sporting community, with tributes pouring in from both Zimbabwe and South Africa following his tragic passing after injuries sustained during a boxing bout in Mpumalanga.

Ncube died in the early hours of May 16 after spending weeks receiving treatment in South Africa following injuries he suffered during an international boxing tournament staged by Ilanga Boxing Promotion in partnership with the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation in Mpumalanga on March 27.

The latest condolences came from Mpumalanga MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation Leah Mabuza, who described the boxer’s death as a devastating loss to the entire boxing fraternity.

“It is with deep sadness and shock that the MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation has learnt of the passing of Ndodana Ncube,” read part of the statement issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.

“On behalf of the Department and the sport fraternity in Mpumalanga, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Ndodana Ncube. This is a painful loss not only to his family and the people of Zimbabwe, but also to the boxing fraternity as a whole.”

Mabuza said Ncube had demonstrated courage and talent when he entered the ring during the international contest, adding that the department was heartbroken that the boxer’s fight had ended in tragedy.

“Ndodana displayed immense courage, discipline and passion for the sport, and his contribution to boxing will always be remembered,” she said.

The MEC also thanked medical personnel from Middelburg and Witbank hospitals who attended to the boxer during his prolonged hospitalization, while also acknowledging the role played by various institutions and stakeholders that supported the process during the difficult period.

Ncube’s death has reignited debate around safety standards in professional boxing, particularly in Africa where concerns over medical preparedness, post-fight monitoring and fighter welfare have often been raised by stakeholders in the sport.

In Zimbabwe, the tragic loss has left the boxing community in mourning, with fellow fighters, trainers and administrators remembering Ncube as a dedicated athlete who carried the hopes of many aspiring young boxers.

Earlier, the Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board together with the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture also released a statement mourning the boxer and extending condolences to his family.

The boxing authorities said Ncube’s passing was a painful reminder of the risks associated with the sport, despite the courage and commitment athletes demonstrate every time they step into the ring.

Professional boxing, while celebrated for its discipline, entertainment and opportunities for social mobility, has historically carried inherent dangers. Over the years, several international fighters have succumbed to injuries sustained in the ring, prompting global campaigns for stricter medical examinations, improved emergency response systems and enhanced athlete protection measures.

In Southern Africa, the tragedy has once again brought into focus the need for stronger regional cooperation in ensuring uniform safety standards for boxing tournaments, especially those involving international fighters.

Ncube’s death also comes at a time when Zimbabwean boxing has been experiencing renewed growth, with promoters increasingly organizing regional and international tournaments aimed at reviving the sport’s fortunes and exposing local talent to broader competition.

The late boxer was regarded by many within local boxing circles as a hardworking athlete whose determination reflected the resilience often associated with Zimbabwean fighters competing under difficult conditions.

As messages of condolence continue to pour in from across the region, many in the boxing fraternity say the greatest tribute to Ncube would be renewed commitment towards improving fighter welfare and ensuring safer conditions for athletes pursuing careers in the ring.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.