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Walter Mswazie Masvingo Correspondent
THE new World Boxing Council (WBC) International welterweight champion, Charles Manyuchi, has hailed his Zambian handlers and described them as very accommodative and supportive.Manyuchi who is also the African Boxing Union (ABU) champion said he is grateful to his coach, manager and promoter for putting him on the world map and thanked them for taking care of his needs both on and off the ring.

In a wide ranging interview, the Masvingo-born pugilist said the kind of assistance he is receiving from Zambia has made him a respected fighter throughout the continent and world at large that he wishes to fight for the golden belt one day.

“I feel very grateful to my trainer Mike Zulu, manager Christopher Malunga and promoter Mohamed Salim. The three men have made my dream possible and they came into my life at the right time. They have taken care of my training and social needs. The assistance I am getting will enable me to bring a golden belt to Zimbabwe one day,” said the talented boxer.

Manyuchi whose star continues to shine and is looking forward to defending his ABU title very soon said he is content with what he is getting from his handlers. “For me to be a world title holder in boxing is not very easy. It needs hard work on my part, financial support and even moral support.

“While in Zambia I get everything, I take everyone there as my brother and sister — with all boxing fans taking me as their brother.
“I am humbled by the kind of treatment I receive from our neighbours. I feel loved whenever I have a fight and one would think the crowds which attend my bout are Zimbabwean,” he said.

Charles, son to former light middleweight boxer Otis Manyuchi, said he was happy with his pickings in that country. “A few people are content with what they get at their workplaces and I am one of those few because I am happy with what I get. My promoter has never disappointed me because he pays me handsomely. Basically I do not complain.

“However, I expect my fellow countrymen to keep on supporting me as their son. I am not looking at monetary gains but when we win big things we also expect moral support like what Minister of Sport, Art and Culture Andrew Langa and Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Walter Muzembi did when I touched down at Harare International Airport after the fight in Zambia,” he said.