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The tournament is set for Saturday and Sunday and Zimbabwe will field six fighters — Mugove Muhambi, Tawanda Mufundisi, Admire Chingozhoro, former world champion Samson Muripo, Nicholas Muchatisi and Naison Chituva.
Mutikani said they know what to expect and most of the fighters who have travelled have previously competed in major international events elsewhere.
“With the way we were training I think they are prepared for the competition.
“The good part is we do not have injuries and we have been pushing them as individuals to train harder because full contact is about endurance.
“We have good chances of winning because the guys are well prepared.
“Our guys have met some of the fighters who will be there before because most of them have been to international tournaments in countries such as Hungary, Japan and Russia,” said Mutikani.
Mutikani said they received an invitation from the organisers of the tournament because of their reputation in the sport.
“We are the only country invited from Africa because of our record and I think it’s going to promote the sport locally.
“We now need to host international tournaments where we call these people to come and participate,” said Mutikani.
Former World champion, Muripo said they are ready to compete with their fellow top karatekas from across the globe.
“I think we have adequately prepared for the competition and we are just waiting for the event.
“We are ready and winning is every athlete’s expectation but the best will win.
“We are prepared to fight and win,” said Muripo.
His teammate, Mufundisi said he hopes the experience he has had over the years by competing in various international events will help him conquer in London.
“We are looking forward to bringing some medals back home this time around. We have travelled to similar events before and the experience will definitely come to play.
“We are prepared for these guys,” said Mufundisi.
Mufundisi who is from the IFK style said he is also hoping to be graded to fourth dan.
“We are going to be graded, myself and Mutikani to the fourth dan. I was last graded in 2008 and I am overdue for the fourth dan,” said Mufundisi.
The team is hoping to be in London by tomorrow ahead of the competition starting on Saturday.
Online Reporter