malvernmugadzikwa
Abel Ndooka
CHAMPION boxer — Kudakwashe ‘Take Money’ Chiwandire — has intensified her training programme as she is preparing for her mandatory title defence against Mexican-born fighter Zulina Munoz (35).
The bout for the two fighters has been scheduled for August 20 and will be staged at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC).
Chiwandire won her World Boxing Council Interim Super Bantamweight in February this year after pummelling Zambian boxing Legend, Cathrine Phiri, in her backyard and that victory has already opened floodgates to riches for Take Money.
Following her victory, Chiwandire was rewarded by President Mnangagwa with a golden shake of US$15 000 for raising the nations flag high and many corporates have since come on board to support her preparations for the upcoming bout against the experienced Munoz.
After pocketing just US$1 000 when she faced Phiri back in February, Take Money will pocket a hefty US$20 000 when she faces Munoz.
Zulina Munoz
In an interview, Chiwandire’s manager and coach, Clyde Musonda said Munoz presents a bigger test for Take Money so they have stepped up her preparations as she bids to retain her title.
“We are overwhelmed with the level of support we have been getting from the whole nation. So we want to keep raising the nation’s flag high, hence we have intensified Kuda’s preparations so that she can be in the best condition when she faces Munoz.
“Zulina Munoz presents a bigger test for Kuda and her record is impressive, but we are not fazed by that.
“We are ready for her and we can promise the whole nation that the belt is staying in Zimbabwe,” he said.
If Chiwandire manages to retain her title come August 20 against Munoz, she will be the mandatory challenger for Yamileth Mercado’s (Mexico) WBC Super Bantamweight gold weight.
Munoz nicknamed as La Loba (The Wolf) debuted in 2005 and has an impressive record of 52 wins, four losses and two draws from 58 professional fights.
Bongani Ndlovu