Esther Phiri retires, calls time on trailblazing boxing career

Zambian boxing icon, Esther Phir, has announced her retirement, closing a pioneering career that transformed women’s boxing and inspired a generation of young female athletes. In an emotional statement addressed to the “girl child,” Phiri said she was stepping away to give space to emerging talent, signalling a shift from competition to mentorship. “I hang up my gloves officially because now it’s your time to shine and become someone in life,” she said, framing her decision as both an ending and a beginning.

Phiri, whose rise from selling chicken pieces at Mtendere Market to becoming one of Zambia’s most celebrated athletes made her a national symbol of resilience, reflected on a journey marked by personal sacrifice, public scrutiny and moments of doubt. She said she battled criticism, betrayal and pressure—often from those closest to her—but relied on faith to carry her through. “From the first time I wore the gloves and stepped into the ring, I felt alive,” she said, recalling her early days training alongside men who dominated the sport.

Phiri noted that female boxers face unique challenges, from social expectations to harsher judgement, urging young athletes to embrace both wins and losses as part of their development. Despite the obstacles, Phiri said she was proud to have represented Zambia and thanked the public for years of support. “Thank you Zambia, you have rallied behind me all the years I had been boxing till this last fight,” she said, appealing for similar support for upcoming fighters.

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With her retirement, Phiri plans to focus on grooming new talent, saying the next generation should aim to surpass her achievements and elevate Zambia on the global stage. She called on government, corporates and the public to work together in strengthening the sport’s foundations and improving opportunities for girls entering boxing. Phiri exits the ring as a trailblazer whose story reshaped perceptions of women in sport and broadened opportunities for future athletes.

“I leave the stage with love, respect and honour to have paved the way,” she said. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.

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