CHARLES MANYUCHI’s head might have endured hundreds of punches since his professional debut a decade ago, but only one date is etched in the boxer’s memory.

Four years ago, on July 30, 2015, Manyuchi realised his long cherished dream of meeting former President Robert Mugabe, when he was treated to a royal bash, before walking out of State House US$50 000 richer.

The State House bash was organised after Manyuchi had knocked out Gianluca Frezza of Italy to retain the World Boxing Council International welterweight title in Sequals on July 17, 2015.

Manyuchi was 26 at the time and his career was on an upwards trajectory.
Manyuchi is now 30 and in search of a road to recovery after losing his WBC belts.

Former President Mugabe is also gone and the boxer is seeking a way to appease the spirit of Zimbabwe’s founding father, who passed away on September 6.

Manyuchi has a crucial fight on September 28. The bout could enhance his status on the international boxing arena.

He takes on Diego Diaz Gallardo of Argentina for the vacant World Boxing Federation world middleweight title at the Harare International Conference Centre in a fight that he is dedicating to the late former President Mugabe.

“Everyone knows how the late former President Mugabe appreciated my boxing talent. At one time, I was invited to the State House and got a whopping US$50 000, that was a lot of money.

“So, as I prepare to take on Gallardo, I am motivated by the need to do it (win) in remembrance of the late former President Mugabe.

“The good thing is that President Emmerson Mnangagwa is also very supportive of my boxing career, he has often given me words of encouragement and my wish is that, if time permits, may the President be present at Harare International Conference to witness the demolition of Gallardo.
“I was down yes, but I am certainly not out.

Manyuchi is rising again and I am doing this for the pride of my beloved nation,” Manyuchi said.State media