Ichocho bounces back for Mr. Malawi contest

Former Mr. Malawi Bodybuilding Championship runner-up Yasin ‘Ichocho’ Suwedi has announced his return to the sport in preparation for the 2017 edition scheduled for November at College of Medicine (CoM) Sports Complex.

The Ndirande-based bodybuilder missed last year’s event, which Patrick Mhango won, and rumours were rife that he had quit the sport after being frustrated with his failure to win the title in three attempts.

However, Ichocho told The Nation yesterday that he is back for good.

“I missed last year’s event not out of frustration, but rather because of my busy schedule as I was establishing my security company. Now, I am back and I will compete in this year’s competition. Even if I fail to win, I will not quit because I am a bodybuilder for life,” he said.

But reigning champion Mhango said Ichocho’s return to action will not disrupt his intentions to defend the crown.

Meanwhile, Weightlifting and Bodybuilding Association of Malawi (WBAM) general secretary Harold Mwayang’ana has described Ichocho’s return as a blessing to the sport.

“Ichocho is one of the most prolific bodybuilders who make the sport popular in the country. We very much welcome news about his return. As a growing sport, we need such athletes of vast experience to take bodybuilding to greater heights,” he said. n