TRABABLAS CHAMPIONS SITHOLE, CHIYANGWA RECEIVE VEHICLES AS ZIMBABWEAN BOXING ENJOYS GLOBAL SPOTLIGHT

Zimbabwean boxing received a significant boost last week after businessman Kuda Tagwirei fulfilled his pledge to reward the inaugural Trabablas title winner with a brand new Toyota Fortuner. This gesture underscores the growing private-sector confidence in the country's professional fight scene. Clever Sithole, who claimed the Zimbabwe super-middleweight crown after outpointing Lawrence Chiyangwa in a keenly contested bout at Phil-Jen Country Lodges in Chivhu last November, was officially handed the vehicle mid-last week following the completion of insurance and registration formalities.

Chiyangwa, despite his defeat, was also presented with a similar reward in recognition of his role in elevating the landmark contest. Sithole's victory, achieved on home soil, earned him the newly introduced Trabablas championship belt and marked a milestone moment for domestic boxing. The title fight, hosted in honor of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, drew high-level political and business attention, with senior ZANU PF officials, including Politburo member Dr. Mike Bimha and National Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, in attendance.

During the handover ceremony, Mashonaland East Provincial Chairperson Lincoln Matare presented Sithole with his car keys, emphasizing the importance of patience and discipline among athletes. He also reiterated that commitments made to sportspeople must be honored and called for increased participation by promoters and corporate sponsors. The ceremony was witnessed by Sithole's manager, former world boxing champion Charles Manyuchi, and Clyde Musonda, a co-promoter of the Trabablas tournament