Esther Phiri, Sandra Almeida Reignite Controversy Over 2015 Draw

Former world champion Esther Phiri has reopened debate over her controversial 2015 bout against South African boxer Sandra Leigh Almeida, calling it “one of the most unfair fights I ever had” in a Facebook post.

Phiri, Zambia’s first internationally recognized female boxing champion, expressed frustration at the technical draw that ended their May 22, 2015 fight in Lusaka. The clash, stopped in the third round after Almeida sustained a head cut, was ruled accidental by officials. Phiri insists the injury resulted from “clear punches” and not a headbutt, as claimed by Almeida’s corner.

“If I had a way, ka rematch because I was hurt by the results,” Phiri wrote. “Even after the match was reviewed and discovered it wasn’t a headbutt but just clear punches against Sandra Almeida of South Africa.”

The fight had been billed as a unification bout for the WIBA and WPBF belts and was scheduled for a rematch in April 2016, which never materialized after Phiri’s retirement.

Almeida responded publicly, suggesting the fight was stopped too early to determine a winner.

“The fight only went three rounds—way too early to determine who an actual winner was,” she said. “I felt they should have allowed the fight to continue. I was just as unhappy with the result as Esther. But as professionals, we don’t throw tantrums. Boxing is not just about hitting hard—it’s a classy sport.”

Almeida further implied that Phiri’s elevated status in Zambia may have influenced her reaction.

“I believe I could beat Esther. Maybe she has a strong punch but lacks technique… All professional athletes know you can’t take everything personally,” she added.

Phiri, a trailblazer for women’s boxing in Zambia, became world champion after defeating Belinda Laracuente. Her comments have sparked fresh debate among fans about unfinished business between the two fighters.