FROM VEGAS TO MABVUKU!. . . Mayweather feels at home in Scott’s old neighbourhood

Mathew Masinge

FROM Las Vegas to Mabvuku!

For Floyd “Money” Mayweather it’s just another day in his fairy-tale and the American superstar appeared very much at home in the high density suburb yesterday.

This isn’t the home of people who fly in US$50 million private jets.

But, when you are Mayweather, it still feels like home sweet home.

He says he felt the connection from the moment he stepped out of his Air Mayweather private jet at Robert Gabriel International Airport yesterday morning.

He is in the country as part of his “Motherland Tour,” which started here yesterday and concludes in South Africa this weekend.

Businessman Scott Sakupwanya, who grew up in Mabvuku, and his Better Brands company, are behind Mayweather’s visit to Africa.

“It feels good to be home, I am in Africa, my motherland,” said Mayweather.

The athlete was treated to some exhibition boxing from local players, including Arifonso Zvenyika, Fernando Tom, Monalisa Sibanda and Cecilia Pitiseni.

The residents of Mabvuku also got a rare chance to watch the iconic boxer go through an open workout at their Number 1 grounds.

Sakupwanya said the historic event only proved that he was a man of his words.

“I said this almost two years ago and people never believed me,” he said.

“I am proud that today (yesterday) I fulfilled my words to bring Mayweather to Zimbabwe and, particularly, to Mabvuku.

“This is my way to show love to the people of Mabvuku and, since Mayweather is seeking to sponsor young boxers in Africa, this also serves as a platform for him to consider them.

“It has also been my passion to do something big for the ordinary person and this has just been a huge confirmation.”

Last night, Better Brands hosted Mayweather at a lavish all-black dinner at the five-star Meikles hotel.

The event was also attended by the Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control board and various friends of the Scott Sakupwanya Foundation.

After the event, music lovers were treated to some entertainment from the Chillspot Family, Killer T, fresh from a successful tour of Canada, and Jah Prayzah.