▪️Steve Masiyambumbi was voted the best referee in the 2025 IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships
February 2, 2026
Masiyambumbi, who in 2021 sold his car to attend* *Star-3 R&J course in Dubai, reflects on his award in an interview with boxersworld.co.ke
Question: How did you feel being voted the best referee in the world’s most prestigious and richest boxing tournament?
Answer: Being voted the best referee is a tremendous honor and a significant milestone in my career. It’s a validation of the effort I put into my role, especially under the pressure that comes from representing multiple countries.
While it’s not my first recognition, this award is particularly meaningful, as it reflects our collective commitment to ensuring fairness and respect in the sport.
Q: What does the award mean for Africa’s R&Js?
A: This award symbolizes hope and progress for referees and judges in Africa. It highlights our ability to compete at the highest level and emphasizes the critical role we play in the sport. Our performance can impact the future of boxing, and this recognition inspires others to strive for excellence and uphold fairness in their officiating.
Q: Can you single out the most difficult bout you officiated in Men’s World Boxing Championships in Dubai?
A: Every bout posed unique challenges, but the 71kg final bout between Koldenkov Sergei of Russia and Zhussupov Ablaikhan of Kazakhstan stood out due to the intensity and skills displayed by both boxers. It was a reminder of the importance of neutrality in officiating and the need to remain composed under pressure to ensure that each athlete is given a fair opportunity to shine.
Q: As a former boxer do you also enjoy watching the game while officiating, especially the light‑middleweight final bout in Dubai World’s between Russia’s Koldenkov Sergei and Kazakhstan’s Zhussupov Ablaikhan due to the skills displayed by both boxers and high intensity of the bout as you described it?
A: While I’m refereeing my primary focus is the fighters’ safety and enforcing the rules. Admiration never compromises my neutrality.
I do enjoy watching quality techniques and smart ringcraft. However, when I’m in the ring I’m not watching for entertainment; I’m watching body language, spacing, legal/illegal actions and any signs of danger or injury. Appreciation for skill is part of the job, but impartiality and safety always come first otherwise if a referee is carried away by an entertaining bout he’ll forget his job.
Q: Do you at times feel like telling a boxer he or she made a wrong move or the punches are not landing on target?
A: Well, when boxers are in the ring each one of them is carrying their own cross. Even if I notice, I can’t coach or critique during a round. That’s the job of their coaches. I will, however, give neutral instructions or warnings for safety or rule breaches, and stop the action if correction is needed. Referees must not coach or advise a fighter on tactics. If I see something that risks a fighter’s safety or is against the rules, I will intervene with brief, neutral instructions (for example “protect yourself,” “break,” or “head up”) or issue a warning. Between rounds My interventions are limited to enforcement and safety, not tactical coaching.
Q: Have you ever been punched in the ring either unintentionally or intentionally by an angry boxer annoyed with your officiating?
A: Accidental contact happens occasionally; intentional strikes on a referee are extremely rare.
Occasional accidental glancing blows happen — fighters are moving fast and close quarters can cause inadvertent contact. Personal safety and maintaining control of the bout are the priorities. Always keep moving. Maintain the distance between the boxers so that you don’t get knocked out. Personally l have never been punched accidentally.
Q: What are the qualities of a competent referee?
A: A competent referee must demonstrate integrity, fairness, and decisiveness. Understanding the rules thoroughly and maintaining neutrality is essential, which is why we wear black and white. Our role is crucial, and since our performance is continuously evaluated, it’s vital to remain focused and diligent throughout every match.
Q: How did your family receive the news of your award?
A: They were excited..Actually I didn’t know I had been chosen until my family—my wife Cynthia and my sons Leon and Leonel— watched the announcement live. Their support has been a cornerstone of my journey, and knowing they were cheering for me during the tournament made the moment even more special.
Q: Revisiting 2021 when you sold your car to attend a Star-3 R&J course in Dubai, what do you have to say after winning this award?
A: Reflecting on that decision, I can confidently say it was worth every sacrifice. Winning this award validates my commitment to officiating and reinforces my belief in the path I chose.
I also want to express my gratitude to Bishop Owen Madori and the Grace House Church members for their prayers and support throughout my journey. Above all, I owe my success to God, as I believe that without him, I can achieve nothing. As Moses said, “If your presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.” When my name was called,l felt like l was dreaming, and my first thought was to thank God for keeping his promise. Trusting in the Lord has opened many doors for me, and I encourage everyone to put their faith in him to experience the blessings of the Kingdom. This award is a testament not only to my effort but to the collective teamwork of all referees involved in the tournament. Together, we worked tirelessly to ensure every boxer was given a fair opportunity to compete. And last I want to thank the Government of Zimbabwe for allowing me to go and officiate in the IBA Men’s World Championships because without their blessings you cannot travel outside the country. I’m happy that l have put my country on the global map.
