Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Eswatini Boxing Association (EBA) delegation is currently participating in the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships taking place in Dubai, which began on December 2 and is expected to conclude on December 14, 2025.
The team, attending the event for the second time since their debut in 2024, is competing through full support from the International Boxing Association (IBA), which sponsored air tickets and accommodation. This year’s participation aims to build experience, strengthen competitiveness and expose local athletes to high-level international boxing.
The national team comprises six boxers which are Khaya Shongwe (54kg), Mukelo Dlamini (57kg), Qhawe Gamedze (60kg), Thabiso Dlamini (63.5kg), Khayelihle Mkhabela (67kg) and Sibonelo Ndzimandze (71kg), along with two coaches, Douglas Simelane and Muzi Shongwe.
They travelled to Dubai to represent the country on one of the biggest boxing stages globally. Their involvement answers Eswatini’s broader goal of growing the sport and developing disciplined, confident athletes prepared to take on the world’s best.
Eswatini’s presence at the championship reflects ongoing efforts by the EBA to ensure local fighters gain international exposure, improve performance standards and measure themselves against elite boxers from across the globe.
Throughout the tournament, the EBA has consistently offered morale-boosting messages to the fighters, urging them to give their best inside the ring.
Ahead of his first bout, the association extended warm wishes to Thabiso Dlamini (63.5kg), encouraging him to “fight hard, fight smart, and show the world what you’re made of.” They assured him of the nation’s confidence and urged him to represent Eswatini with pride.
In another message, the EBA wished 67kg boxer Khayelihle Mkhabela a strong performance, telling him to “go out there and give it your all.” Although he later lost on points to Brazil’s Santos Oliveira Cassio, his bravery impressed the association, which praised him for carrying the Eswatini flag with honour.
Two more fighters, Khaya Shongwe (54kg) and Qhawe Gamedze (60kg), also received heartfelt good-luck wishes before stepping into their bouts. The EBA encouraged them to trust their training, remain focused and fight with passion.
They later put on courageous performances despite point losses. The association saluted their commitment, saying their fighting spirit continues to inspire the nation.
Further messages of encouragement were shared with upcoming competitors Mukelo Dlamini (57kg) and Sibonelo Ndzimandze (71kg), urging them to enter their bouts with confidence, discipline and national pride.
Meanwhile, the EBA has also announced its youth representatives for the upcoming ANOCA Youth Games, supported by the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA). The selected boxers, Nothando Mshayise (54kg) and Robert Billa (57kg), together with coach Maxwell Ngwenya, will represent Eswatini in an event reserved for athletes aged 14 to 17.
The EBA says It remains optimistic and committed to cultivating a new generation of boxers. While victories have not yet been secured in Dubai, the association maintains that every match, every round and every punch thrown strengthens the country’s long-term prospects in the sport.
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