A FEMALE boxer, hailing from Walmer Township in Port Elizabeth, has recently won the World Boxing Federation’s (WBF) Women’s World Featherweight Championship title.
Nozipho Bell dethroned the former WBF World Featherweight Champion, Unathi Myekeni, on March 30, in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth.
As the sole breadwinner for her family, Bell is determined to make a success of her boxing career and continue to fight to achieve her goals.
“I did not grow up with the luxury of having everything at my disposal. I had to fight for what I wanted.
“I’m very happy for winning this title – it will open more doors for me in the boxing industry and I will be able to support my family better.
“This title goes out to my family and coach, who have always believed in me,” Bell said.
According to Bell’s coach, Caiphus Mac, the win was a huge boost for his gym, both through new sponsorships and gym members who are lining up to join his training camp.
Mac added, “Bell has made her community so proud and we are more determined that she will win more titles – and also to defend the one she has already won. She has shown all of us that she has the ability to do great things and we’re all standing firmly behind her.”
Klinicare Blooms Pharmacy is Bell’s sponsor and has supported her throughout her journey as a female boxer.
The owner, Deon Schoeman Senior, said that he is proud of her accomplishment and will continue to sponsor the young champ.
Schoeman said, “Myself and the pharmacy’s staff members were so happy when we heard she had won. She made us proud and we wish her well on her journey ahead.”
In an interview with PE Express, Bell said that she wanted to be an inspiration to young girls and women in her community and to break the chains of patriarchy associated with boxing in South Africa.
“I would like to give back to my community and also teach other girls and women that it’s okay to do something, which society deems is only good enough for men,” Bell commented.
In March, Bell was crowned as the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Boxer of the Month.
The reigning South African champion has improved her record to nine wins‚ two losses and one draw.
