HIV in Sports: Mutampuka vs. Limond Canceled Due to HIV Fears

Is there a rule that one can’t fight in the boxing ring if one tests positive for HIV? Apparently there is. Why else would they cancel the showdown between Godwin Mutampuka and Willie Limond?

If a boxer tests positive for HIV, should that fact be broadcast for the whole world to know? In the case of Zambian boxer Godwin Mutampuka, someone leaked the information because the word is out. If we were him, we would sue whoever leaked the information. But then again, maybe the practice is allowed in boxing. What do we know?

From the Scottish Sun: WILLIE LIMOND’S world title fight with Godwin Mutampuka was called off yesterday — amidst fears the Zambian has tested positive for HIV.

The WBU lightweight showdown, scheduled for this evening at Paisley’s Lagoon Leisure Centre, had to be scrapped after Mutampuka failed a routine British Boxing Board of Control medical ahead of the clash with Glasgow scrapper Limond.

Board general secretary Robert Smith last night refused to comment on mounting speculation over Mutampuka.

However a fight insider confirmed: “There is a major problem with Mutampuka’s blood test.” Mutampuka and his backroom team arrived in Glasgow yesterday apparently unaware of the drama that was about to unfold.

The stunned Zambian said: “I’m very disappointed and surprised that I have not been passed fit to fight.

“I cannot understand why I failed the medical. It came as a huge shock to me and I deeply regret the situation.”

Limond, making his debut as promoter, will still fight but in a hastily-arranged non-title bout.

Close to tears, the 30-year-old said: “I am absolutely gutted.

“I thought at first someone was having a joke when I received a call from the Board informing me Mutampuka had failed his medical.

“I feel sick after putting in nine weeks hard training, but I also feel for the guy and the fans because a lot of people have bought tickets and were very much up for this fight.

“I have a responsibility to go in there and put on a show, even though I will now be fighting a non-title bout.”

Limond’s manager and co-promoter Alex Morrison was furious as he had received correspondence from Mutampuka’s agent claiming that the African had already been passed fit.

SunSport understands the Mutampuka camp had not been given the results of his medical prior to leaving London, where they have been based since last weekend.