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Langton Nyakwenda in CHIVHU
BY the time Charles Manyuchi stepped into the ring for his farewell bout against Limbani Lano of Malawi, boxing fans in Chivhu had already been treated to a night of mixed results.
First, Evans Usayihwevhu, who has been anointed by Manyuchi as his successor, lost his World Boxing Federation lightweight title to Malawian Israel Kamwamba, before Tinashe “Chairman” Madziwane restored Zimbabwe’s pride with a clinical performance against Yobe Kamnyonyo.
The 33-year-old Madziwane is the new WBF Intercontinental super featherweight after he knocked out the Malawian Kamnyonyo in the second round. It was his first fight in 17 months.
The Mbare-bred boxer was over the moon after his victory.
“I want to thank the people of Chivhu for coming to support boxing. This is a moment I will forever cherish,” he told The Sunday Mail Sport. Credit goes to Prosper Chibaya for promoting this fight and my team, Delta Force Academy, for the support.”
Manyuchi then put the icing on the cake when he dismissed Lano in front of an appreciative crowd. He reminded fans of what they will miss when he finally retires, as he skilfully dodged Lano’s punches. A former World Boxing Council Silver welterweight champion, Manyuchi announced his retirement in March.
He is now set to stage two more fights in either Masvingo or Bulawayo and Harare, before he finally hangs up his gloves.
“I had to win this fight for my fans,” Manyuchi said.
That win pushed Manyuchi’s record to 26-4-1. “It was good to fight in front of my fans . . . Chivhu is my home and I love this town.
“I will now shift focus to the upcoming two fights later in the year.”
His match was the main drawcard of a seven-bout night, which was opened by a four-round encounter between local boy John Andrew and Nyasha Hwata, who won it on points.
Chivhu-based Clever Sithole stole a number of hearts with a gutsy performance against Blessed Tagwireyi. Upcoming Farai “Carnelo” Makombe defeated Roy Yuda of Malawi, while Revai Madondo was too good for Mphatso Metauzo, also from Malawi.
But, of course, the major attraction was Manyuchi, who was accompanied to the ring by popular Zimdancehall artiste Jah Signal.
His manager, Prosper Chibaya, confirmed that the 33-year-old pugilist will fight in two more bouts before officially calling time on his career.
“We are looking at the possibility of staging one of those fights in either Masvingo or Bulawayo, before we finish the programme in the capital, Harare,” said Chibaya.
A number of boxing personalities, including veteran promoter Stalin Mau Mau, attended the tournament.
“It’s good for the sport if we can have more tournaments like this one,” Mau Mau said.
He also hailed Madziwane for finally capturing the WBF title.
“He (Madziwane) is reaching the twilight zone of his career but remains a dedicated and talented boxer.
“I am happy for him; he deserved this title.”
But it was not the same for Usayihwevhu, who wept uncontrollably after losing his crown.
It is still not clear if his handlers will push for a re-match.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter