By Tendai Chisiri
Harare – Zimbabwe’s boxing fraternity is mourning the death of boxer Ndodana Ncube, who passed away in the early hours of 16 May 2026 in South Africa, nearly two months after collapsing following a fight in Middelburg.
The Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board [ZNBWCB], together with the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, confirmed his passing and described it as “a profound loss to the boxing fraternity, the wider sporting community, and the nation at large”.
Ncube, 29, collapsed in the changing rooms after winning an eight-round super featherweight bout against Lunga Stimela at an international tournament at Eastdene Hall in Middelburg on 26 March 2026 according to Citizen in South Africa.
Paramedics stabilised him at the venue before he was taken to King Nyabela Hospital and later transferred to Witbank Provincial Hospital, where he was admitted to ICU. Doctors discovered a blood clot in his brain and performed emergency surgery on 28 March. He remained in a coma until his passing.
The ZNBWCB said Ncube would be remembered for his dedication, courage, discipline and contribution to boxing in Zimbabwe.
“From the time of his injury, which occurred during a match, Government, through the Ministry and the ZNBWCB, remained fully committed to ensuring he received the best possible medical care and support,” the statement said.
The board also acknowledged support from Boxing South Africa, medical teams and promoters who assisted during his treatment.
ZNBWCB CEO Priscila Kadungure said the board and ministry remain committed to strengthening athlete welfare, safety standards and medical preparedness in combat sports.
Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course in consultation with Ncube’s family. The ZNBWCB said it would continue engaging stakeholders to improve welfare for boxers and wrestlers across the country.
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