Manyuchi on cloud nine

Sports Reporter
REIGNING Zimbabwe Sportsperson of the Year Charles Manyuchi said he was well-prepared for his non-title bout against Tanzanian boxer Ibrahim Mgendera, whom he stopped in the first round in Lusaka, on Saturday.The 26-year-old World Boxing Council welterweight international champion said the match was a good warm-up for his upcoming bouts.

He knocked out Mgendera in 57 seconds.

He will face Italian Gianluca Freeza on July 18 in Milan.

Manyuchi had been initially billed to defend his title against Mexican Silverio Ortiz in Zambia on April 25, but his stable, Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions, opted for Frezza because the Italian has offered good conditions.

“The match was a good warm-up for my match scheduled for 18 July against Italian Gianluca Freeza on July 18 in Milan.

“I am happy that I managed to get support from Bofela Group in Zambia as well as MR T35,” said

“I am looking forward to getting support from the locals as I try to further my career.” Manyuchi now has a record of 16 wins (10 knock-outs), one draw and two defeats .

The 35-year-old Frezza has a record 22 wins, which include seven knock-outs, and two draws.