The Sunday Mail
THE boxing gods continue to smile on high-flying World Boxing Council welterweight champion Charles Manyuchi.
The pugilist, who successfully defended his WBC International belt against Devis Caceres of Colombia last November, attracted a lot of interest from international match makers at the WBC Convention held in United States of America’s Las Vegas last December.
Manyuchi’s Zambian manager Christopher Malunga, who runs Oriental Quarries boxing promotions, attended the WBC Convention where he made vital international boxing contacts. Sources close to the Manyuchi camp say that the boxer could fight for the International Boxing Federation welterweight belt end February while challengers from Greece and Russia could be lined up in the year. The same sources also say Malunga pushed for a match between Manyuchi and Britain’s WBC Silver welterweight champion Amir Khan but was advised to seek at least two more fights for the Zimbabwean before he can qualify to face off with Khan.
Although Manyuchi, who is currently on holiday in his hometown of Masvingo, could not disclose more details, referring all the questions to his manager, reports suggest that the 26-year-old fighter could face an opponent from West Africa for the IBF welterweight title. A press conference to announce the deals struck at the WBC Convention by Oriental Quarries has been scheduled for tomorrow in Lusaka while Manyuchi is expected in camp later during the week.
“Yes, my manager was in Las Vegas where he met a lot of influential boxing people including the legendary Don King and I hope something fruitful will come out of it. It will be good if I get more intercontinental fights, I can only thank God, my father in boxing Edison Zvobgo Jr for his continued support,” said Manyuchi.
Manyuchi’s exploits have seen him slowly gain more support and recognition on the local scene with truck refurbishing company Mr T35 affirming its backing for the reigning Sportsperson of the Year.
“We will continue supporting the boxer, we have been providing transport and regalia for fans who travel to watch Manyuchi in action in Lusaka and we are not going to stop. Manyuchi is doing wonders and we feel he deserves more support locally, we have to be proud of our own,” said Martin Beula, Mr T35 marketing manager.
