As we approach the end of the first month of the new year, many of us continue to struggle against the Corona virus. Some of our team have had the Covid virus themselves but have thankfully survived, and tragically some other of our team has sadly succumbed to Covid 19.
I was informed a few days ago about the passing of our Zambian representative Anthony Mwamba. For those who knew Anthony, his whole being epitomized boxing itself. He was ‘Zambian boxing’ and worked tirelessly throughout his life to uplifting many lives through boxing.
Anthony was a soft spoken, true gentleman, a man of dignity and a man of principle. He will be missed and we convey our condolences to his family.
Anthony’’s passing comes just after the passing of our former Mexican representative and wonderful friend Sergio Sotelo. Another great man and another guy whose entire life was boxing – a man who will also missed by countless many.
In South Africa, we have hit our second wave with a variant in the virus which accelerates transmission of the virus.
Fortunately the world is starting to administer vaccines, and hopefully within months herd immunity can be achieved worldwide.
We are tired of this ruthless virus which has affected the world so dramatically.
On a positive boxing note, the WBF has begun to stage events on a regular basis on the continent of Africa, while we wait for Europe and the rest of the world to open up again with the sport we love.
Next stop on the WBF agenda is once again Tanzania with a double header again promoted by the Jackson group, this being their second promotion in four months, and with another event scheduled for the end of March.
South Africa and Namibia are due to hold WBF titles in February, while March sees South Africa, Zimbabwe and as mentioned Tanzania.
April has Malta, Botswana and Nigeria, while our executive Director Christian Rosen has assured me that we should be ready to get titles up and about in Europe by this time.
There also will be a few changes to the structure within the WBF which will be announced shortly.
Even with the vaccines coming closer and closer, please remain vigilant and cautious with this virus.
Take care and hope to see you sooner rather than later.
Until next time, keep punching.
Howard Goldberg
PRESIDENT: World Boxing Federation
