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Ellina Mhlanga and Takudzwa Chitsiga Harare Bureau
CHARLES Manyuchi’s trophy, which he won in Italy after successfully defending his World Boxing Council international welterweight crown last Saturday, was confiscated by Zimra officials on his return home at Harare International Airport yesterday. The champion boxer returned to a hero’s welcome with hundreds of supporters welcoming him at Harare International Airport when he touched down from his base in Zambia.
But the boxer was disappointed that the trophy, which he wanted to parade to the fans, was confiscated by Zimra.
Manyuchi stopped Italian challenger Gianluca Frezza in the sixth round on Saturday.
Manyuchi said he was happy to be back home and to be given such a rousing welcome by his countrymen and women.
“I’m happy the crowd is big today, the first of its kind, and I’m happy for the support. I hope I’ll continue to have such support in future,” said Manyuchi.
“The only thing is that I don’t have my trophy with me as it was taken by Zimra and I’m disappointed about that.
“I thought I was doing it for the nation but it’s unfortunate that they took it from me.”
Reports said Manyuchi did not declare the trophy on arrival.
Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions manager Chris Malunga said they were now focusing on the silver title held by Britain’s Amir Khan.
“I’ll be going to China to bid for him (Manyuchi) to fight against Khan,” said Malunga.
“It’s just that we aren’t happy by losing the trophy to the authorities as we’ve travelled to several countries without encountering such a thing.
“I hope we’ll be able to get the trophy, we would’ve loved to parade it to the local supporters.”
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Andrew Langa, yesterday congratulated Manyuchi, the Davis Cup and national cricket teams for their success at the weekend.
“The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture, on behalf of His Excellency the President and the people of Zimbabwe, wish to congratulate the Invincible Charles Manyuchi, the Cricket and Tennis teams and the Young Warriors for all their hard work and dedication,” Langa said in a statement.
“Charles’ journey began way back and has been a reflection of dedication, hard work, intense passion and it motivates others to dream big.
“He has flown the Zimbabwean flag high, conquering all hardships, to get to where he is today.
“It’s said people remember you by your name, but the victory we have here tells the story of your indomitable courage.
“Congratulations on your win and fearless effort, wish you only victories in your future fights.
“Chevrons have done us proud in their victory against India in the T20 match. They played like a perfect team and deserved the perfect win. You met the challenge with determination, strength and absolute aptness!
“Congratulations are due also to the Davis Cup team for a 5-nil victory which secures them their place in the Europe/Africa Group II. It’s courage, drive and dedication like yours that has made Tennis in Zimbabwe what it is today!
“The Young Warriors have had it tough in the past with financial hardships and the squabbles in Zifa, but on Sunday they fought like a team and despite all the negative press against their mother body they’ve done us proud.
“It is my Ministry’s wish that the young men go into camp as of today to prepare for their return leg. Many achievements and success are waiting for you to bag, so keep your aim high and make a plan to soar.
“It’s our hope that we come together as Zimbabweans to rally behind our sport and offer our financial support to our sporting icons.
“I, therefore, call upon the corporate world and the Zimbabwean community at large to assist as much as possible so that all these sporting icons may continue in their journey.”
Online Reporter
Londile Moyo