By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE, 7 May 2026– The Council Chambers buzzed with anticipation yesterday as the Charles Manyuchi Boxing Academy, in partnership with Mutare City Council, officially launched the Pride of Mutare International Boxing Tournament.
The event, set for 23 May 2026 at Mutare Sports Club, promises a 17-bout feast of fist, featuring fighters from Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania.
Addressing the media, Marketing and Media Manager Nicola Chinya said the tournament is a celebration of talent and discipline, and a deliberate step towards restoring Mutare as a boxing hub.
“Historically, Manicaland has produced boxing stars like Snake Mandeya from Honde Valley. Charles Manyuchi himself won a youth gold medal here in Mutare back in 2005. This event creates a platform for young boxers to gain international exposure and pursue their dreams,” Chinya said.
The academy, fronted by 18-time international belt holder Charles Manyuchi, is using the tournament as a launchpad for deeper development. Mutare City Town Clerk Blessing Chafesuka did not mince words, acknowledging the city’s past sporting slump.
“As a country we have somehow dragged back in supporting sport. We had many years where we failed to host matches like this, and we saw a lot of social ills such as drug abuse because our youth were idle,” Chafesuka said.
In a bold turnaround, the city is strengthening its sports budget, reviving facilities, and introducing a ring-ready project.
“We want to launch our own boxing ring in Mutare. After this event, we will have our own boxing ring. Whilst we are hosting boxers from South Africa and Tanzania today, in three or four years’ time we want to send our own boxers to America,” Chafesuka declared.
He revealed the initiative was sparked when Manyuchi hosted an international event in Chivhu last year, prompting the city to act.
Chafesuka assured that all logistical requirements are in place, while keeping the door open for additional support.
“I can ensure you that we have catered for everything that is required, but I’m not saying those who want to make it better must not come. This is an initiative for the City of Mutare through our sporting budget,” he said.
Tickets for the 23 May tournament are pegged at $5 for general entry, $10 for VIP, and $20 for VVIP. All roads, the city insists, lead to Mutare this May, as the border town prepares to punch above its weight once more.