The 28 year-old earned the accolade prior to his loss to Tony Bellew on May 29 and was scheduled to be honoured the week after his fight at Goodison Park.
Sadly for Makabu and manager Tarik Saadi, victory was not to be, although the big puncher had the consolation of being named Africa’s best fighter for 2016.
Saadi himself picked up the Manager of the Year trophy and told WBN in the aftermath: “It’s amazing and a big surprise for both of us.”
Other awards went to:
Silver Glove : Yvan Mendy
Bronze Glove : Michel Soro
Crystal Glove : Taylor Mabika
Makabu is hoping to be back in the ring in the next few months as new WBC cruiserweight champion Bellew eyes an all-Uk battle with David Haye.
