National fighters, Samson Muripo together with George Matambo, Resistance Munyepera and Kelly Mutisi will be fighting in the middle-weight category, while fellow countryman, Muchineripi Tarwirei, will be in the light-weight category of the world’s biggest showcase of kyokushin full-contact karate.
Kyokushin Union of Zimbabwe chairman, Stephen Charandura said the 2007 World Cup would expose the Zimbabweans to the world champions of full-contact karate giving them much-needed international experience.
Charandura said, “We are aiming at leaving a mark there and if possible, bring one or two medals.”
According to the KUZ chairman, five other karatekas to take part in next year’s edition of the Len Barnes Memorial Tournament – an annual event held in South Africa, will be travelling with the team so as to perfect their fighting techniques.
“We are also using this event to make sure that our young non-participating karatekas learn from the best for future tournaments,” said an optimistic Charandura.
Sensei Samson Muripo is expected to put a brave show after his Japanese tour last August, where he fought 30 full-contact karate contests, of which he won 13, drew nine and lost eight against top Japan fighters. – Gracey Chirumanzu
Post published in: Zimbabwe Sports News