Cindy Ngamba’s highly anticipated debut in professional boxing has been postponed because of a medical problem.
The Olympic athlete was scheduled to make her first professional appearance on the undercard of Natasha Jonas’ light-middleweight title defense against Lauren Price at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday.
Doctors stopped the boxer from Cameroon from participating after discovering a medical “issue” during a routine pre-fight medical check.
Boxxer released a statement saying: “Cindy Ngamba will not be making her professional debut on Friday night. A pre-fight medical examination revealed a health issue that needs further medical investigation.”
“The health and safety of all boxers is our top priority.”
“Cindy will undergo more tests in the next few days.”
Boxing fans discussed their disappointment on social media about the cancellation of Ngamba’s fight with Kirstie Bavington.
One fan commented: “Hope it’s nothing serious.”
“There have been too many health scares in boxing to take any risks now.”
Another fan said: “Hopefully, Ngamba will recover quickly, and the fight can be rescheduled.”
Another person added: “I am very disappointed that my Friday night is ruined!”
Someone else mentioned: “This is not an ideal start to a pro career, happening just before her debut.”
“Hopefully, it’s not too serious.”
Ngamba’s debut was one of the most anticipated matches on the historic all-women’s boxing event at the Albert Hall.
The 26-year-old has lived in the UK since she was 11. She competed in the 2024 Olympics in Paris as part of the Refugee Olympic Team.
She made history by becoming the first medalist for the team, winning a bronze in the Under-75 kg weight class.
Ngamba, who could not represent Team GB despite training with them, bravely announced she was a lesbian in 2017.
Her public statement about her sexuality means she could face imprisonment if she returns to Cameroon, where homosexuality is illegal.
She revealed: “You can be killed, assaulted, or imprisoned. I cannot return.”
