Zambia Gears Up for Historic WBC Bantamweight Bout
The stage is set for a thrilling night of international boxing as Zambia prepares to host the prestigious World Boxing Council (WBC) International Bantamweight Championship on May 24th, 2025, at the Government Complex in Lusaka.
The official budget launch for the landmark event took place on Friday, with the Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts Elvis Nkandu delivering an impassioned address highlighting the significance of the upcoming tournament.
The Minister emphasized the importance of the bout which will see Zambia’s own African Boxing Union (ABU) Bantamweight Champion, David Mwale, step into the ring against Ghana’s Michael Decardi Nelson. This highly anticipated clash headlines an exciting card featuring a total of 11 international bouts.
“This prestigious event will showcase Zambia’s African Boxing Union (ABU) Champion, ‘David Mwale’, against ‘Michael Decardi Nelson’ from Ghana,” Nkandu stated. “The championship will feature 11 international bouts, bringing together talented boxers from Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Ghana, with esteemed officials from Spain, Tunisia, Ghana, South Africa, Namibia, and Zambia.”
With a substantial budget of K1,200,000.00 allocated to the event, the Minister assured that this will be a “landmark occasion in Zambian sports,” promising a spectacle of high-caliber boxing action for fans.
Drawing a powerful parallel to Zambia’s rich boxing history, Nkandu invoked the memory of Lottie Mwale’s iconic victory over Ray Acquaye in 1990.
“This event holds historical significance, echoing the legacy of Lottie Mwale’s victory over Ray Acquaye in 1990. Today, David Mwale will uphold Zambia’s honor in the ring,” he declared.
The Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to sports development, recognizing the profound contribution of boxing to Zambia’s national identity and spirit.
“The Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts prioritizes sports development, recognizing boxing’s contribution to national pride,” he affirmed. “Boxing is more than just a physical contest; it’s a test of mental toughness, strategy and heart. Our athletes push themselves to the limit, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.”
Looking towards the success of the event and the future of Zambian boxing, Nkandu further made a direct appeal to the corporate world.
“I therefore invite esteemed companies and organizations to consider sponsorship packages prepared by Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions,” he urged. “As promoters, you play a vital role in bringing these exceptional fighters to the forefront, providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills.”
The Minister concluded with a strong call for collaboration, emphasizing the collective effort needed to make this historic moment a resounding success.
“Your support will ensure the event’s success and promote Zambian athletes globally. Let’s collaborate to make this historic moment a triumph for Zambian sports,” he stated.
The upcoming WBC International Bantamweight Championship is poised to be a major highlight on Zambia’s sporting calendar, offering not only thrilling boxing action but also an opportunity to showcase the nation’s sporting prowess on an international stage. All eyes will be on David Mwale as he aims to etch his name alongside Zambian boxing legends.
