FORMER two-time Commonwealth flyweight boxing champion, Alfonso “Mosquito” Zvenyika has warned World Boxing Control (WBC) welterweight silver champion, Charles Manyuchi to invest his earnings wisely to avoid falling onto the same slippery slope that saw Mosquito squandering away his earnings and going broke.
BY HENRY MHARA
Zvenyika, who became popular in 1998 after knocking out Scottish boxer, Paul Weir to win the title in Scotland, reckons that had he not obsessed himself with opulence that came with the fame, he wouldn’t be living in abject poverty today.
The 40-year-old, whose financial difficulties are well-documented, said he learned his lessons too late, but hoped sharing his story would help upcoming boxers like Manyuchi to avoid the mistakes he made.
Manyuchi is currently riding on the crest of wave following his WBC welterweight silver title victory in Russia recently, where he earned himself over $30 000, on top of the $50 000 he received from President Robert Mugabe for defending the WBC welterweight international title.
Corporates have also been rewarding the boxing superstar for his success.
Manyuchi, together with his principal sponsor Mr T35, yesterday made a guest appearance at Zvenyika’s Mbare home, and in an emotional conversation, the former champion poured his heart out.
“You shouldn’t make the same mistakes that I made,” Zvenyika warned.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
“I didn’t get proper guidance and look where I am now. Invest your money, put up a solid financial plan together for when you are no longer able to fight. This career is very short, so you need to be very careful with your finances. Be very disciplined and remain humble.”
Mosquito said the appeal that came from living a lavish lifestyle was overwhelming for many local sports stars, most of whom come from humble beginnings.
“Yes, you can help your family members and friends, but you have to know when to say yes and when to say no. It’s difficult to say that sometimes, but you can’t be a money link. You can’t be seen splashing your money everywhere and on everyone. I’m happy that you are getting corporate support, but I think you deserve more for what you have done for the country. The government should honour you and if they can do that, it will inspire and encourage, not only upcoming boxers, but other athletes too. A diplomatic passport, at least, could be a good starting point,” Mosquito said.
He also urged Manyuchi to go for the WBC welterweight gold title.
“You haven’t achieved anything yet because I know you have potential to do more. You have to continue working and training hard. You should take a leaf from a person like Floyd Mayweather (former WBC welterweight gold champion) who, despite raking millions, still trained like he had not achieved anything. Aspire to be like him.”
