All eyes on Manyuchi

Gilbert Munetsi Sports Correspondent—
ZIMBABWE’S Charles Manyuchi tonight fights Italian GianluccaaFrezza(23-2-2) in defence of his World Boxing Council International Welterweight title in a bout that will have Spirit Embassy leader Prophet Eubert Angel leading a group of those supporting him. Manyuchi traveled to Italy in the company of his Zambian promotion company’s two officials — Operations Director Christopher Malunga and coach Mike “Weaver” Zulu.

Owing to failure by the organisers to raise the adequate funds required, he had to leave behind his father, Otis, who has been instrumental in his career as one of his trainers.

It is the presence of Angel, among a few other Zimbabwean supporters, which is expected to boost Manyuchi’s morale.

Also forming the entourage are Team Zimbabwe UK officials Marshall Gore and Marshall Chimanya, who were instrumental in fundraising and hosting the Zimbabwe Olympic and Paralympic teams back in 2012.

The former is also an advisor to Dereck Chisora.

Smarting from a recent victory inside 57 seconds which he scored in an international friendly match against Tanzania’s Ibrahimu Class at the Mulungushi Stadium in April, Manyuchi yesterday said his chances of retaining his title were good.

“I am not reading much into that (record). As usual, I look upon God to be in my corner, and the training regime that I have been subjected to by my team gives me all the confidence to emerge victorious and improve my position on the world rankings. The Almighty has never failed me.”