By Watson Mvula
Malawian boxer Ellen “The Tigress” Simwaka has expressed her desire to return to her home country for a bout after a prolonged period of competing abroad. Simwaka, currently based in South Africa, has been vocal about her wish to fight in Malawi, citing her love for the local boxing atmosphere.
The opportunity to stage a bout between Simwaka and Zimbabwe’s Kudawashe Chiwandire was previously lost due to Malawi’s substandard boxing ring. However, with the recent introduction of a new, internationally recommended ring, Simwaka’s homecoming bout is now a possibility.
“I would be so grateful and happy to come fight home,” Simwaka said. “I miss dancing in the ring at home.” Her comments come amid reports that she has been struggling to secure bouts in South Africa, with several boxers reportedly hesitant to face her due to her formidable reputation.
Michael Chimaliza, promoter for New Dawn Boxing Promotions, which had initially planned to stage the Simwaka and Chiwandire bout, confirmed that they had been eager to host Simwaka in Malawi. “The ring was the main issue,” Chimaliza explained. “Now that we have a new, standard ring, we are open to hosting Ellen Simwaka.”
However, Chimaliza noted that securing opponents for Simwaka has proven challenging, as many boxers are intimidated by her skills. “Most opponents are not willing to fight her as she is feared to be a very good boxer,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Simwaka’s camp has reportedly secured Chiwandire’s agreement to fight. Unfortunately, New Dawn Boxing Promotions has already finalized alternative pairings for their upcoming tournament on August 30 at Kumbali Castle and Lodge.
Chimaliza expressed interest in potentially staging the bout in the future, particularly for a title fight next year. “It takes time to identify sponsors for an expensive tournament like a title fight,” he added.
Simwaka’s homecoming bout would undoubtedly generate significant interest among Malawian boxing fans, and it remains to be seen whether New Dawn Boxing Promotions can facilitate the fight in the near future.
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