▪️Almeida returns to the ring to settle a controversial rivalry and build the future of women’s boxing in Africa
▪️The first encounter in which they vied for women’s International Boxing Association (WIBA) and World International Boxing Federation (WIBF) welterweight unification title ended in a disputed technical draw in the third round in 2015 at the Government Complex in Lusaka
Sandra Almeida, South Africa’s first-ever female professional boxer, is returning to the ring to settle one of the most disputed outcomes in African women’s boxing history—while using the moment to drive the sport forward for the next generation of female fighters.
In 2015, Almeida, now 43 years, challenged Zambian boxing pioneer Esther Phiri, 38, for a welterweight WIBA and WIBF unification world title bout that resulted in a highly controversial technical draw.
The fight ended in the third round after Almeida sustained a deep cut below the right eye, claiming Esther head-butted her but the Zambian boxer denied using her head.
“I beat her with my powerful right punches I didn’t headbutt her as she claims, I’m the champion,” Esther was quoted as saying in the Times of Zambia, demanding a rematch to silence the big-talking South African boxer.
The decision sparked outrage and debate, with Esther publicly stating she was robbed—a claim that followed her into retirement from professional boxing. Almeida also retired shortly after, as life beyond boxing took priority.
A war of words preceded the tension-charged fight. Almeida arrived in Lusaka breathing fire, warning Esther to prepare for a fifth-round knock out.
“I’m a tough lady who loves a good challenge though I’ve never knocked out any opponent I aim to KO Esther in the fourth or fifth round,” declared Almeida, describing the Zambian as a little hyena that had woken up a sleeping lion.
“I’m going to chew her alive and go back to South Africa with the two belts,” roared Almeida.
Esther remained calm ignoring her opponent’s verbal warfare.
“She’s a coward just making noise to intimidate me but I will roast her,” said Esther who had fought in 18 fights, winning 16, lost and drew one while Almeida had won five fights, lost four and drew one.
The controversy surrounding the highly publicised fight, promoted by Exodus International Promotions, never disappeared.
In a dramatic twist, Esther’s camp has now called for a rematch, reigniting a rivalry that has lingered for years. Almeida accepted immediately.
“People have talked long enough,” says Almeida. “I know what happened in that ring. Had that fight continued, Esther would not have survived it. This rematch is about truth—raw, undeniable truth.”
The exhibition rematch is officially confirmed for March 27, 2026, in Zambia, with contracts signed and preparations underway. While the bout is not for a title, the stakes are deeply personal—and historically significant.
“This is not nostalgia,” Almeida adds. “This is about accountability. You don’t walk away from a draw, claim robbery, and leave questions hanging for decades. You come back and prove it—or you get proven wrong.”
Now a registered South African boxing coach, Almeida has shifted much of her focus to developing women in boxing, creating pathways for young female fighters to gain exposure, discipline, and confidence through the sport. She is also passionate about using boxing as therapy for children on the autism spectrum, reinforcing boxing as a tool for empowerment rather than just competition.
The Zambia event will include young female boxers from South Africa and other countries, giving them a rare international platform to showcase their skills alongside two pioneers of women’s boxing.
“This fight is bigger than me and Esther,” Almeida says. “It’s about showing young girls that women belong in this sport, that their careers matter, and that their stories don’t get erased or dismissed.”
Still, Almeida is unapologetically clear about her personal goal.
“I’m going to beat Esther,” she states. “Not to humiliate her—but to close this chapter properly. Women’s boxing deserves honesty, not myths and excuses.”
As the countdown begins, the rematch promises not only fireworks in the ring, but a defining moment for women’s boxing in Africa—where legacy, truth, and the future collide.
Who will laugh last in this grudge match with all the trappings of an explosive and furious showdown?
Interesting to see Esther come back, make sure you come with good footwork and straight punches