Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ELVIS Moyo, Bulawayo’s hard hitting MMA heavyweight and a symbol of grit from the dusty backyards of Nkulumane, just scored a knockout outside the ring, a game changing sponsorship from Scott Sakupwanya’s Betterbrands.
The celebrated EFC Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) heavyweight champion has been officially unveiled as a Betterbrands athlete, joining a high profile line up that includes top-flight football sides Scottland and Highlanders.
This landmark partnership was announced by Moyo’s management team, Serengeti, on Tuesday evening through spokesperson Michelle Mitchell.
“Betterbrands, under the leadership of Scott Sakupwanya, is proud to support the development of Zimbabwean sport through our sponsorship of boxer and current EFC Mixed Martial Arts Heavyweight Champion Elvis Moyo. We are delighted to welcome Elvis Moyo as a Betterbrands athlete,” the company said in a statement.
They highlighted Sakupwanya’s growing sporting footprint, already evident in his substantial backing of Premiership side Scottland FC.
“Mr Sakupwanya’s commitment to advancing sport is demonstrated not only by this partnership, but also through his significant investment in Scottland FC, reflecting his dedication to nurturing talent and promoting excellence across sporting disciplines,” the statement added.
Betterbrands emphasised that supporting driven and disciplined athletes like Moyo is key to unlocking Zimbabwe’s sporting potential.
“We believe that supporting committed, hardworking athletes like Elvis Moyo is essential for the growth of sport in Zimbabwe. Our goal is to empower local talent and provide opportunities for athletes to reach their full potential. Through continued investment and leadership, Betterbrands remains committed to uplifting Zimbabwean sport and inspiring the next generation of champions.”
Moyo, who carved his fighting foundation in the high density suburbs of Nkulumane, Nketa, and Sizinda over two decades ago, expressed joy and deep gratitude for the support.
“Folks, I am delighted to announce that I am now a Betterbrands athlete,” said Moyo. “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Betterbrands and Mr Scott Sakupwanya for their generous sponsorship and support of my boxing career. This partnership is a true game changer for me, allowing me to dedicate more time and focus to my training and preparation.”
With renewed momentum, the fighter known to his fans as “The Bulawayo Bomber” vowed to repay the faith shown in him.
“With this crucial support, I am confident I can reach new heights in the ring and make my supporters and the country proud. I am honoured to have Betterbrands and Mr Sakupwanya in my corner, and I promise to represent them with pride and determination every time I step into the ring.”
Moyo was once the African heavyweight champion under the World Boxing Organisation but struggled to secure opponents. Before relocating to South Africa over 15 years ago, he trained alongside former WBA (Africa) champion Thamsanqa Dube.
derick.khumalo