adminGilbert Munetsi
THE Money Mayweather tour rolls into Harare this week but which private jet will he be flying on when he lands in the capital tomorrow?
Maybe the Air Mayweather, one of his two personal aircrafts, a US$60m Gulfstream G650.
He travels in style and his visit to Zimbabwe is unlikely to be any different.
The decision by the organisers to pitch his boxing workout for Mabvuku could not have been more timely.
Mabvuku is home to a number of numerous yesteryear champions who were drawn to the eastern township owing to the presence of the open ring (wafa wafa).
They include decade-long heavyweight champion Arigoma “Master Blaster” Chiponda, who later relocated to Chitungwiza.
Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board chairperson Vee Chibanda said in an interview yesterday they were anticipating positive vibes for the sport that has also seen the country hosting a WBC officials’ training seminar and an ABU convention.
“As Zimbabwe boxing we are excited by this life-changing moment for the fraternity.
“Floyd Mayweather Jnr’s visit is an endorsement that Zimbabwe is a boxing country and has boxing athletes to reckon with.
“It puts us on the map and opens up opportunities for our athletes and possible synergies.
“We are confident that Mayweather’s visit will inspire and motivate young Zimbabwean athletes to strive for greatness in the boxing ring, and this recognition will bring more attention and support for the growth and development of boxing in Zimbabwe,”she said.
The ZNBWCB is coming in as a technical partner for Better Brands for the tour.
While there may have been other world-renowned sports personalities, who have visited the country in the past, Mayweather may pass as the most glamorous, if his record and financial stature are to be considered.
Bragging of a 50-0 (KO-27) pro record and estimated to have a net worth of US$400 million, he once dominated the Forbes list of the most paid athletes.
His biggest fight against Manny Pacquiao before retirement, grossed a then record US$300 million and post active fighting period, he racked in US$350 million from an exhibition match with EFF fighter Conor McGregor.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter