By Francis Chipalo
Zambia’s celebrated female boxing icon Esther Phiri has appealed to young girls across the country to take up boxing, stating that the sport has the power to transform lives, build discipline and produce more female champions.
In a motivational message directed to the Girl Child, Esther encouraged more girls to join the sport, while warning that boxing is not an easy path and requires sacrifice, mental strength and commitment.
“Boxing Demands a Lot From You” – Esther Phiri
Esther, who is widely regarded as one of Zambia’s most successful female boxers, said boxing is a demanding sport that forces athletes to give up fun and social life in order to remain focused.
“Boxing is a game that demands a lot from you. You will have to sacrifice having fun for harder training. You will have a very small, tight circle. In some ways it is a lonely sport — less time with friends, more time training,” Esther guided.
She explained that boxing is not just about physical strength, but also about discipline and consistency, especially for female fighters who face unique challenges.
Strict Weight Control a Major Challenge in Boxing
The boxing champion also highlighted that maintaining weight is one of the toughest parts of the sport, as fighters must constantly train and control their lifestyle to remain in the right weight class.
“To be in a certain weight, you have to lose, train for that weight, and live to stay in that weight as long as you fight,” she said.
Esther Warns About Jealousy and Trust Issues in Boxing
Esther further cautioned young female boxers about jealousy and negative competition within the sport, advising girls to be careful about who they trust.
“The only person you have to trust, if you know them well, is your coach,” she said.
“Especially because you are a girl child, challenges are very high. You need to look after yourself.”
Esther Runs Boxing Academy in Mtendere
Esther Phiri, who currently runs a boxing academy in Mtendere, Lusaka, said Zambia still has very few elite female boxers compared to male fighters.
She stated that increasing female participation will help Zambia build a stronger pool of women fighters who can represent the nation internationally.
“Only Me and Catherine Phiri at the Top” – Esther
The boxing icon noted that Zambia has limited top-level female boxing representation, mentioning that only a few women are currently at elite level.
“So far in Zambia there is only me and Catherine Phiri at the top. We need more girls,” she said.
Call for More Girls to Join Boxing in Zambia
Esther’s message has been received as an inspiring call to action for young Zambian girls to embrace boxing as a sport and career path, while understanding the sacrifices involved.
Her remarks come at a time when Zambia continues to promote women empowerment in sports, with many calling for increased support for female athletes across different disciplines.
As Esther Phiri continues to mentor upcoming fighters through her academy, many believe her influence could help shape a new generation of fearless female boxing champions in Zambia.