Malawian Boxer Simwaka Earns Top Spot in Africa Boxing Rankings
Africa boxing rankings have recognized Malawian female boxer Ellen ‘The Tigress’ Simwaka as the best in the continent’s women’s bantamweight category. The South Africa-based fighter has been ranked number one among 28 active boxers, according to BoxRec, a globally recognized boxing ranking system.
At 32 years old, Simwaka has also secured the 21st position out of 243 fighters worldwide. The rankings place Zimbabwean Monica Mkandla second in Africa and 26th globally, while Ugandan Catherine Nanziri is third in Africa and 28th in the world. Danish boxer Dina Thorslund remains the world’s number one in the bantamweight category. Simwaka’s accomplishment is a significant moment in Malawi’s boxing history, inspiring many young athletes to aim higher.
Simwaka’s Reaction to Her Top Ranking
Simwaka, with an impressive record of 13 wins, seven losses, and two draws, expressed her excitement about the recognition. She stated that she feels honored to be ranked at the top and views it as motivation to keep pushing forward in her boxing career.
“I am so proud of myself, and I don’t take this for granted. It is a big motivation. I have worked hard for this, and I deserve it,” she said. Simwaka has previously held the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Federation (WBF) titles, further cementing her reputation as a skilled fighter.
Her achievement has been applauded by the Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board (MPBCB) president Lonzoe Zimba. He described Simwaka’s success as a great moment for Malawian boxing, urging other fighters to work hard and improve their rankings.
“This recognition shows that our athletes have what it takes to succeed on the international stage. I hope this will encourage more young female boxers to enter the sport and work towards such achievements,” Zimba added.
Praise from the Boxing Community
Fellow South Africa-based boxer Isaac ‘Golden Boy’ Chilemba praised Simwaka for her dedication and commitment. He described her as a hardworking and talented boxer who is destined for great things in the sport.
“Ellen is a monster in the ring and a true fighter. She gives her all in every bout. The only challenge is that she does not get many fights,” Chilemba said.
Simwaka last fought in October 2024 when she faced Tanzania’s Jesca Mfinanga in a non-title eight-round fight. She emerged victorious, winning on points, a result that further solidified her position in the Simwaka Africa boxing rankings. Her ability to dominate her opponents and maintain discipline in training has been key to her continuous growth in boxing.
Upcoming Challenges and Career Hurdles
Simwaka had an opportunity to claim the IBO world super bantamweight title in August 2023. She faced defending champion Mea Motu from New Zealand but lost by a lopsided decision in Auckland. Despite the setback, she remains determined to pursue more titles.
The Herald newspaper of Zimbabwe recently reported that Simwaka is scheduled to face Zimbabwean boxer Kudakwashe ‘Take Money’ Chiwandire in the World Boxing Council (WBC) Africa title bout. The fight was initially set for March 29 in Harare, but Simwaka is uncertain if it will happen.
She revealed that although a contract was signed, there has been no further communication from Chiwandire’s team. She expressed frustration over the lack of updates, stating that such delays are common in her boxing career. This uncertainty is a challenge that many boxers face, especially in securing and finalizing fights.
Simwaka’s Future in Boxing
Despite challenges, Simwaka remains focused on her boxing journey. She hopes for more opportunities to compete in high-profile matches that can further elevate her status in the sport. She continues to train rigorously, hoping to stay in top form for any upcoming fights that may come her way.
Her achievement in the Simwaka Africa boxing rankings serves as inspiration to young and aspiring female boxers in Malawi and beyond. She continues to train hard, aiming for more victories and global recognition in the sport. The rise of female boxing in Africa depends on dedicated athletes like Simwaka, who are proving that the continent can produce world-class fighters.
With her determination and skill, Ellen Simwaka’s journey in boxing is far from over. She is ready to take on more challenges and prove why she deserves to be Africa’s number one in the bantamweight category. The future looks bright for Simwaka, and fans of African boxing will be eagerly following her next moves in the ring.
