Lusaka, July 21 (IANS): Zambian boxer Charles Manyuchi has retained his World Boxing Council (WBC) international welterweight title after knocking out his Italian challenger Gianluca Frezza in the sixth round.

The Zimbabwean-born boxer retained his belt after knocking out Frezza in the sixth round during the bout in Venice on Saturday night, Xinhua reported on Monday.

The 25-year-old pugilist, who fights under Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions, said he was excited that he managed to defend the title on foreign oil.

"I am very excited that I managed to retain my belt. I knew I was going to win although it was not easy. I am very happy," he said.

The Zambia Professional Boxing and Wrestling Board and Control has since congratulated the boxer for retaining the boxer.

Nelson Sapi, the board's chairperson said the victory puts the boxer in a position to challenge for the silver title before going for the gold title.

"May our good Lord continue to protect Floyd Mayweather so that he should not retire early but give Manyuchi a chance of meeting him in the ring so that the world can see what Africa is able to offer in Manyuchi," he said.

The win pushes him to 17 wins from 21 bouts and only two losses.