Chiwandire, Manyuchi Fights Pushed Forward

By Gilbert Munetsi

The much anticipated boxing duel between Kudakwashe Chiwandire of Zimbabwe and Zambia’s Catherine Phiri earlier scheduled for January 29 has been moved forward to the end of February.

The two will fight for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) super bantamweight title in Lusaka on a bill being promoted by Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions (OQBP).

Charles Manyuchi will also fight on the undercard, defending his World Alliance Boxing Association (WABA) Supreme championship which he will unify with the World Boxing Union (WBU) world title. His opponent is Said Mbelwa of Tanzania.

OQBP Administrative Secretary Ben Saili on Friday said the promoter had seen the need to postpone the date to enable them to raise more funds towards the event.

A budget of K260 000 has been drawn for the successful hosting of the event tournament.

According to Saili, the new date set is February 26.

“OQBP was privileged to meet with the Minister of Youth, Sports and Arts, Honourable Elvis Nkandu.

“At the meeting we discussed, among other things, the upcoming fight. We were advised to reschedule the fight so that the corporate world can be engaged at a cocktail to be hosted by OQBP in liaison with the Ministry.

“At this event, resource mobilisation will be the main topic,” Saidi said, adding the Minister was appreciative of the economic downturns due to the Covid pandemic.

“We would, however, like to engage the corporate world with a view to finding a workable solution.”

The administrative secretary disclosed their platinum sponsors, Tradekings, had since committed to partnering with OQBP and had already begun preliminary preparations towards hosting of the event.

For one who has previously won the WPBF inter-continental title, this will be Chiwandire’s biggest career fight.

The postponement comes as a blessing in disguise as it affords her the much needed time for preparations since she faces a fighter who has trodden the WBC world title path before. Nhau/Indaba