The boxing fraternity is in mourning following the tragic loss of former boxer John Masamba who died after the house he was sleeping in caught fire in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
The late John was a resident of Chilomoni Township in Blantyre and the cause of the inferno is yet to be established.
Masamba’s younger brother, Wilson, confirmed the tragic death and said the issue has been reported to police for investigations.
“I am told that the house was burning and when rescuers came, it was too late as he was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital,” Wilson said.
He said, as a family, they have lost someone they were looking up to for guidance in various aspects of life.
“Besides being a brother, John was one of the best boxing trainers in the country. At a time when many doubted my performance, John helped me to resurrect my career,” the Malawi Defence Force fighter said.
Female boxer, Ruth Chisale, also paid her tribute to the late trainer.
“I still cannot believe it. He was the one training me for my international title fights. I am very shocked,” Chisale said.
Ngumi Boxing Stable Managing Director, Steve ‘Mawenzi’ Msiska, said he was failing to come to terms with the death of one of the prominent figures in the country’s boxing circles.
Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board spokesperson, Frank Chibisa, said the nation had lost one of its best trainers.
“In fact, we had been advising promoters to engage Masamba and travel with him during international fights because he had good skills as regards imparting knowledge to younger boxers,” Chibisa said.
Masamba was born on October 22 1977 and represented Malawi at various amateur events including the All Africa Games and the Commonwealth Games
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