THE Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (ZNBWCB) on Thursday rolled out the red carpet, welcoming home International Boxing Federation (IBF) Minimum Weight champion Beaven Sibanda at their National Sports Stadium offices.
Sibanda arrived in the country on Monday morning from his South Africa base to celebrate his triumph back home.
Known as “The One” in the ring, Sibanda cemented his place in history by becoming the first Zimbabwean flyweight boxer to claim an IBF championship title.
He achieved this remarkable feat by delivering a stunning fifth-round knockout against the Philippines’ Richard Garde in their 12-round bout in South Africa earlier this month.
His triumph has resonated deeply within the national boxing community, and the ZNBWCB extended a heartfelt welcome to this true icon of Zimbabwean boxing.
ZNBWCB chief executive officer Priscilla Kadungure expressed the nation’s immense pride in Sibanda’s achievement.
“To you, Beaven, we eagerly anticipate seeing you scale higher in the global professional boxing arena,” she stated.
“You have made a bold statement to the world that you are indeed a champion. Your incredible journey has not been without its ups and downs.
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“However, it is your aspirations for the future that you now need to focus on. You must remain resilient to reach far and beyond.”
Kadungure emphasised that Sibanda’s victory transcends personal glory, serving as an inspiration for the entire nation.
“Beaven, your recent triumph and crowning as the International Boxing Federation champion has not only brought glory to yourself and your team, but has also ignited a new spark of hope and inspiration across our nation,” she added.
She further applauded the young boxer’s mindset, noting how his success will promote and inspire other aspiring young boxers.
“Your journey is a testament to unwavering dedication, relentless hard work, and the sheer power of an indomitable spirit,” Kadungure affirmed.
“You have shown us all what it means to pursue excellence and to achieve greatness through perseverance.
“You demonstrated exceptional boxing talent while competing for the IBF Minimum Weight Title.”
Joining the welcome were fellow boxing luminaries, including former WBC champion Charles Manyuchi, trainer Ally Otto and promoter Clyde Musonda.
