…As international boxers arrive for historic tournament
Game On Reporter
AN African champion, some top female pugilists from the region and an array exciting local talent are all part of the cast for this boxing bash that has been put up by a former World Boxing Council belt holder.
Renowned Zimbabwean boxing star Charles Manyuchi has combined forces with Mutare City Council to come up with a historic boxing tournament in the Manicaland capital.
Dubbed “Pride of Mutare”, the international boxing tournament will be staged at Mutare Sports Club on Saturday night.
The bill is being promoted by the Charles Manyuchi Boxing Academy.
The former WBC Silver welterweight champion is now in semi-retirement and has taken it upon himself to promote the sport.
World Boxing Federation African Lightweight champion Simon Ngoma of Zambia is among the international boxers in Zimbabwe for the tournament.
Ngoma has 12 wins in 15 fights.
His fellow countryman, William Musonda, is also fighting on the night.
He will square up against Jeremiah “Jingo” Mhere from the famed Mau Mau boxing stable in a Lightweight division match.
Bulawayo based Lawrence Chiyangwa takes on Albert Mwelwa also from Zambia in a Light middleweight non-title fight.
There are several female pugilists on the bout card including Lolita Muzeya, Elizabeth Phiri and Mary Phiri.
Some of the local pugilists on the bout card include Evans Huisaihwevhu and John Andrew from the Charles Manyuchi Boxing Academy.
Weigh-in is on Friday morning.
“It’s hands on the deck as the clock ticks towards Saturday,” Manyuchi was quoted in The Herald.
“I am proud to be back in Mutare promoting the growth of boxing in a place I also perfected my art,” he added.
As an amateur, Manyuchi won a gold medal at the National Youths Games in Mutare in 2005.
He is now back in the Eastern Highlands as a boxing promoter.
“I can confirm that we will be hosting boxers from Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania, making this a truly international spectacle.
“I am sure Mutare is ready.”
Manyuchi paid tribute to Mutare City Council for supporting the development of boxing.
“We are grateful to the Mutare City Council for their partnership and support in making this event possible.
“Their commitment to sports development is helping position Mutare as a key destination for international sporting events,” said Manyuchi.
