Judges rob Misanjo of victory
Judges on Sunday spoiled what could have been a resounding victory for Mchinji boxer Charles Misanjo at Obligado Leisure Park in Mzuzu.
His opponent Felix Mwamaso, who was thoroughly beaten, was declared winner by a point of this rematch welterweight fight. A result that shocked most spectators, including some European tourists.
Coincidentally, last year at the same venue, Misanjo also lost their first fight by points.
This time around Misanjo was on top of the proceedings from round one to six, punching his opponent without mercy. He sent the Mzuzu boxer to the canvas in the fifth and sixth rounds.
In the seventh round, some girls suspected to be Mwamaso’s fans splashed soapy water on the ring. This angered Misanjo’s coach Happiness Jalare Nkhoma who confronted one of the suspects, leading to the fight being stopped for about 10 minutes.
After order was restored, Mwamaso wasted no time in knocking down Misanjo with two strong hooks, but this was too late and too little to save him from the jaws of defeat.
But when most people were on their feet to celebrate Misanjo’s victory, they were stunned by the judges’ 75-75, 78-78 and 76-75 scoring.
Fans were heard shouting that the judges should not favour Mwamaso just because the fight took place in his city of residence..
Misanjo’s promoter John Lungu said he was shocked with the result and would ask for a rematch in Mchinji. Mwamaso’s coach Gabriel Kondowe said Misanjo was a good fighter, but he still had to respect the judges’ decision.
In supporting bouts, Tamiwe Chisolola beat Kensbell Mtukula, Mwawi Kamanga defeated Lewis Nkhata while Amosi Nkhata outclassed Tanzanian Yaya Mwayipopa.
