Charlton Malajika’s coach speaks out on controversial draw in Zambia

Looking back at the fight, “Baby Pain” Malajika set the tempo from the opening bell. He comfortably dominated and won the first five rounds, putting on a boxing masterclass. Mwale had a brief spell in the sixth and seventh rounds, and the eighth was razor-close. However, from rounds nine through to twelve, Charlton took total control again as trainer Manny Fenandes explains…

"Charlton definitely won the first five rounds. In the eleventh, he caught Mwale with a left hook and put him down, but they just ruled it as a slip – denying us a clear 10-8 round, and then in the twelfth, they cut that round by 30 seconds when Mwale was half out on his feet." 

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Despite the hostile crowd and questionable officiating, Charlton Malajika showed incredible character on the night. Malajika proved why he is a highly regarded technical boxer, an IBO Youth World Champion, and a WBA Pan-African Bantamweight Champion. According to Fernandes, even the local fans in Zambia knew the truth—their social media comments said it all: Charlton Malajika deserved to win that fight. 

Now, veteran boxing administrator, Dr. Peter Ngatane has already reached out to the WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman requesting an immediate rematch. Whether Mwale’s team accepts the rematch or promoter Rodney Berman and manager Brian Mitchell guide Malajika in another direction remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the 25-year-old is ready for anyone.

"We expected a tough fight on enemy soil, and I’m glad to say that Charlton showed the character of a true champion—he is one hell of a fighter. Dr. Peter Ngatane sent an email to Mauricio Sulaimán asking for a rematch. Whatever or whoever comes next, we are ready."