▪️Issa “Fighter” Faki is the boxer to beat in the bantamweight division, and says he’s ready for the challenge as several top Tanzanian boxers parade for this eagerly awaited event starting today in Dar es Salaam

April 21, 2026

The Tanzanian boxing scene is buzzing with anticipation as the nation’s leading boxers gear up for a major showdown, with all eyes on the rising talent, Issa Faki, a pre-quartefinalist at the 2025 IBA Men’s Championships in Dubai and a bronze medalist in the Africa Zone 3 Championships in Nairobi.

Over 50 boxers converge today, April 21, 2026, at the Dar es Salaam Police Academy for the National Open Men’s and Women’s Championships.

Among the clubs to feature in the six-day tournament include Ngome, JKT, Magereza, Police and teams from other regions in Tanzania. This is the premier boxing tournament in Tanzania.

Top international boxers will also be in action among them Issa Faki who is currently riding high and the talk of town in Dar es Salaam following his historic achievement at the 2025 Men’s World Championships in Dubai where he became the first ever Tanzanian boxer in 51 years to win a bout in this prestigious boxing championship watched worldwide on IBA’s Channel.

Faki also became the second Tanzanian boxer to reach the Round of 16 in the World Championships.

Legendary Emmanuel Mlundwa, dubbed the Father of pro boxing in Tanzania, is the first boxer from East Africa’s most populous and largest nation to win at that level in the inaugural World Boxing Championships in 1974 in Havana, Cuba, when he outpointed Puerto Rico’s Alfredo Pereira in the Round of 32 at light-flyweight.

“It was such an inspiring moment for me and the rest of Tanzania more so because all my other teammates lost in their first fights,” recalls Mlundwa who is revered in his country for introducing pro boxing in 1982, and is now the Director of Pugilistic Syndicate of Tanzania (PST).

Mlundwa lost in the Round of 16 to Cuba’s eventual gold medallist Jorge Hernandez who beat Kenya’s Steve Muchoki in the finals.

And 51 years later, 22-year-old Faki equalled Mlundwa’s achievement.

Pitted against Sultan Al-Nuaim of United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Round of 32 at the Dubai Worlds, Faki ignited a wave of celebrations in the boxing fraternity in his country putting up an explosive show of strength and courage to stop the UAE boxer in the second round after subjecting him to two standing eight counts.

The Tanzanian boxing sensation imprinted his name into the history books, even though his remarkable journey concluded in the Round of 16.

Faki displayed exceptional skill, courage and composure against Kazakhstan’s Saken Bibossinov, the world’s No. 7 ranked bantamweight (54kg) fighter who won gold in the 2021 World Championships and a bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Although he bowed out on points, Faki’s spirited performance signalled a breakthrough moment for Tanzanian boxing on the global stage.

Fresh off a monumental performance, Faki enters this year’s National Championship with a massive target on his back, facing the stiff task of proving that his international breakout wasn’t a fluke. He’s definitely under intense pressure because he’s the boxer to beat in the bantamweight class with several promising upcoming boxers aiming to dislodge him.

Faki will rely on his heavy right cross combined with the resilience and gritty stamina to get the better of his opponents.

His rise has been hailed as a good omen for the sport in Tanzania, displaying the potential for local boxers to effectively compete with the world’s best.

As the national championships start today, the focus is not just on winning, but on demonstrating the hard work and discipline needed for international success.

Will Faki’s strength allow him to dominate the national arena, or will the stiff challenge from rising regional talents prove too overwhelming?

It’s a battle of nerves for Faki Fighter who told boxersworld.co.ke he’s equal to the big task ahead.

“I know all the boxers in my weight want to make a name by defeating me but I’m telling them to be ready for war, I’ve trained very well and ready for them to prove I’m the best,” said Faki who burst into the limelight in the 2025 Africa Zone 3 Championships in Nairobi, winning a bronze medal in his international debut, and went on to punch his way to the pre-quarters in the Dubai Worlds.

“I couldn’t just believe it reaching round of 16, I felt big and a valuable contributor to Tanzanian boxing,” recalls Faki.

“I’m satisfied with my performance against Bibossinov, he’s a good boxer but I contained him even shaking him for a count of eight. Let him know next time we meet he will have it rough.

“The World Championships is a big event I felt proud taking part alongside other established boxers. It’s not an easy championship you need to be courageous and daring as well as preparing thoroughly.”

Comparing the standard of the African boxers with others from the dominant nations, Faki says the gap is not that big.

“What I noticed technically they’re above us especially on boxing skills and speed.

“The big lesson I learned in Dubai is that a boxer has to always in shape and prepared for any challenge.

“I thank my coach Saidi Jeba for preparing me well and coach Samwel Batman Kapungu whom I really thank for his expert guidance against the UAE boxer, without Batman I would not have won the fight.

“Sultan was a good boxer, strong with a powerful right punch and effective from a distance but I subdued him fighting close from the inside using my short right uppercut that destabilised him.”

Faki’s boxing journey started in 2022 on completion of his education at Mwapachu Secondary School in Tanga where he was born. His friend Kasimu Komando encouraged him to try his hand in boxing. At first Faki had no coach he used to train by himself at home.

“My friend Komando knew my dream was to become a soldier and told me you can’t join the army without any skill advising me to train hard to be a good boxer if I want to be a soldier,” says Faki.

“In 2023 is when I started training seriously under my first coach Hussein Shella. We were just a few boxers training outside his house. The most difficult part in our training was sparring, that’s when I felt the pain of a punch when I sparred for the first time against a boxer called Salmin Mizinga.”

Faki recalls the sparring with Mizinga ended with a swelled upper part of his eye. This did not go down well with his parents.

“My dad and mum were not amused seeing me with a swollen eye, they told me to stop boxing but I was not convinced. I continued attending training sessions under our coach Shella, I now wanted to be better than Mizinga.

“The first time to take part in a boxing competition known as Mtaa Kwa Mtaa was in early 2024. I lost to Issa Shabaan from Fitness Gym. The next day I met my second opponent again from Fitness Gym whom I defeated on points.”

In October, 2024, Faki decided to part company with Shella and joined Jeba Boxing Gym under the leadership of Nelson Mtunguja and coach Saidi Jeba.

“That’s where I took my next step in my determination to succeed in boxing. Towards the end of 2024 BFT organised a club tournament. My club Jeba participated, my coach Saidi Jeba escorted me to the ring, I lost to Issa Shabani. This is where I got my nickname Fighter from the leader of my club Jeba.”

Faki’s breakthrough came in 2025 during the National Club Championships. He first saw off Aziz Chala from Police and in the final he TKO’d Hussein Chombe of JWTZ to become the bantamweight champion, winning a gold medal and a trophy for the best boxer of the tournament.

Faki’s impressive performance did not go unnoticed. Boxing Federation of Tanzania (BFT) President Lukello Willilo, Secretary-General Makore Mashaga and national team coach Samwel Batman Kapungu included him in the national team for the 2025 Africa Zone 3 Championships in Nairobi.

Inspired by BFT’s recognition of his boxing potential, Faki did not let them down. He got a bye8 to the semi-finals, losing to DR Congo’s Bakora Kalongo.

▪️Newly-appointed patron Nono Kgafela-Mokoka accepted her role, and made it clear that her support would go beyond title, pledging to actively contribute to the growth of boxing in Botswana

April 19, 2026

The Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA) officially launched the National Boxing League, Event 1 of Season 1, at Molefi Senior Secondary School Hall in Mochudi on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

A key highlight of the event was the appointment of Honourable Nono Kgafela-Mokoka, Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, as the new Patron of BoBA. In her remarks, she spoke with genuine passion about the sport, drawing from her own experience as a former boxing referee and judge.

She shared how boxing has always been close to her, describing it as more than just a sport, but a space that builds discipline, resilience and strong character in young people. Accepting the role, she made it clear that her support would go beyond title, pledging to actively contribute to the growth of boxing in Botswana.

The launch was attended by Senior Vice President BNOC Mr. Mthandazo M. Moroka, BoBA President Mr. Dirang Thipe and his committee and members of the Mochudi leadership, reflecting both institutional and community support for the sport.

The Minister also welcomed the introduction of the league, saying it creates a much-needed platform for structured competition and talent development. She encouraged athletes to take the opportunity seriously, stay disciplined and give their best.

▪️She promises to play an active role in the development of the sport in Botswana to empower the youth through this popular combat sport in Africa

April 20, 2026

“Boxing is more than just a sport. It teaches discipline, respect, focus, and perseverance, values that are essential in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders.”

These were the opening remarks by Nono Kgafela-Mokoka, Minister of Child Welfare & Basic Education and Patron of the Botswana Boxing Association, at the official launch of the National Boxing League on April 18, 2026.

The event, held at Molefi Senior Secondary School, marked a historic step towards structured and consistent boxing competition in Botswana.

Speaking at the launch, BoBA President Dirang Thipe said the League represents a shift from irregular tournaments to a more organised system.

“This is not just another event. This is the beginning of a new era,” he said.

“We are introducing a structured and competitive platform that will keep our boxers active and improve performance.”

The National Boxing League will see 16 clubs from across the country compete in a round robin format across 7 weight categories in both elite men and women divisions.

It’s expected to run through to August 2026, providing consistent competition and a clear pathway for athlete development.

The Minister also welcomed the initiative, highlighting its role in youth development and grassroots growth.

“I am encouraged by the focus on young athletes. This initiative creates opportunities and aligns with our national goals of empowering youth,” she said.

The launch also included the official unveiling of the Minister as Patron, bringing both leadership and experience to the sport, having previously served as a Referee and Judge.

With strong participation and competitive bouts on the opening day, the League has already set the tone for what promises to be an exciting and impactful season.

The Botswana Boxing Association believes the League will play a key role in raising the standard of boxing and creating a clear pathway for future champions.

Saturday, April 18, 2026, will be remembered as the historic beginning of a new era for boxing in Botswana.

▪️General Luyoyo has reaffirmed the importance of Africa as a vital pillar of world boxing. By safeguarding continuity, protecting athletes, and reinforcing governance norms, his work has ensured that African boxing continues to move forward with confidence, resilience, and credibility

April 19, 2026

Since assuming the role of IBA Africa Interim President, General Ferdinand Ilunga Luyoyo is playing a central role in guiding African boxing through a period of institutional transition, with a clear focus on stability, transparency, and athlete‑first governance.

Tasked with restoring confidence and operational continuity within African boxing structures, General Luyoyo has been working closely with the IBA Head Office and national federations to ensure that the continent continues without disruption.

*Restoring Stability and Trust*

One of the interim presidency’s core priorities has been stabilisation. Under General Luyoyo’s leadership, the interim administration has focused on:

▪️Maintaining uninterrupted boxing activity across Africa

▪️Continuing the work of the AFBC Normalisation and transitional governance processes

▪️Ensuring cooperation between continental bodies and the IBA Head Office

▪️This approach has helped re‑establish trust with national federations and safeguard Africa’s position within the global boxing ecosystem during a sensitive organisational phase.

*A Transitional Leader with a Long‑Term Vision*

General Luyoyo’s role is explicitly transitional, but his approach has been future‑oriented. Rather than pursuing short‑term solutions, he has consistently advocated for:

▪️Clear governance frameworks

▪️Institutional accountability

▪️Sustainable leadership structures that will serve African boxing beyond any interim period

His calm, disciplined leadership style—shaped by decades of senior organisational experience—has been widely recognised as a stabilising influence during a complex moment for the sport on the continent.

*Commitment to African Boxing’s Global Role*

General Luyoyo has reaffirmed the importance of Africa as a vital pillar of world boxing. By safeguarding continuity, protecting athletes, and reinforcing governance norms, his work has ensured that African boxing continues to move forward with confidence, resilience, and credibility.

As African boxing prepares for its next chapter, General Luyoyo’s role will ensure a period defined by responsibility, unity, and steady leadership.

▪️Mugabi fought with courage and skill, standing toe-to-toe with the iron-chinned champion and even outboxing Hagler during portions of the fight. His thunderous punches visibly shook the champion—something rarely seen during Hagler’s historic reign

April 19, 2026

Few fighters in boxing history brought the same blend of raw power, aggression, and intimidating presence into the ring as John Mugabi. Known worldwide as “The Beast,” Mugabi carved out one of the most explosive careers the sport has ever witnessed in the light middleweight and middleweight divisions.

Born in Kampala, Uganda, Mugabi rose from humble beginnings to become a global boxing star. His nickname was not promotional hype—it was an accurate description of the relentless, destructive force he unleashed whenever he stepped into the ring.

From Olympic Glory to Professional Destruction

Before conquering the professional ranks, Mugabi announced himself on the world stage at the 1980 Summer Olympics, where he captured a silver medal, signaling the arrival of a future boxing powerhouse.

When he turned professional, Mugabi quickly became one of the most feared fighters in the sport. His early run was nothing short of extraordinary:

• 25 consecutive victories

• 25 knockouts

• Every opponent stopped inside the distance

This remarkable streak turned Mugabi into a knockout phenomenon and a must-watch attraction for boxing fans worldwide.

Boxing historians often point to this stretch as one of the most devastating early-career runs in modern boxing history.

As veteran boxing analyst Bert Sugar once observed:

“When John Mugabi entered the ring, the atmosphere changed. You knew someone was getting hurt.”

 The Night of War: Mugabi vs Hagler

The defining moment of Mugabi’s career came in 1986 when he challenged the legendary Marvin Hagler for the Middleweight Championship of the World.

Many observers believed Mugabi possessed the punching power capable of dethroning the long-reigning champion.

And for several rounds, it looked possible.

Mugabi fought with courage and skill, standing toe-to-toe with the iron-chinned champion and even outboxing Hagler during portions of the fight. His thunderous punches visibly shook the champion—something rarely seen during Hagler’s historic reign.

Even Hagler himself later acknowledged Mugabi’s formidable power.

“Mugabi was one of the hardest punchers I ever fought.” — Marvin Hagler

For ten rounds, the fight was a brutal contest of will, power, and endurance. Mugabi showed not only his feared knockout strength but also an underrated ring intelligence, boxing sharply in the early stages.

However, Hagler’s championship experience and legendary durability eventually shifted the momentum. By the eleventh round, fatigue began to affect Mugabi, and Hagler seized the moment, stopping the challenger in what remains one of the most dramatic fights of the era.

Today, the bout stands as one of the defining championship battles in middleweight history.

Championship Success and Battles with Elite Fighters

Though his career faced challenges after the Hagler war, Mugabi still achieved championship glory by capturing the WBC Light Middleweight Championship, cementing his place among the elite fighters of his era.

His career included battles with formidable opponents such as:

• Duane Thomas

• Terry Norris

• Gerald McClellan

These fighters represented the very best of a brutally competitive era in boxing.

While defeats to such elite opponents appear on his record, they do little to diminish the aura Mugabi carried during his prime years.

Legacy: A Trailblazer and One of Boxing’s Most Feared Punchers

John Mugabi’s career may not have included a long championship reign or undisputed dominance, but his impact on boxing remains undeniable.

He was:

• One of the most feared punchers of the 1980s

• A global boxing attraction

• A trailblazer for African fighters on the world stage

His aggressive style and devastating punching power made him a fan favorite and guaranteed excitement whenever he fought.

Boxing historian Mike Silver once remarked:

“John Mugabi represented the terrifying beauty of boxing—power, courage, and the willingness to face anyone.”

Final Reflections

John “The Beast” Mugabi’s career burned brightly—like a blazing supernova. Though it was not the longest reign among champions, it was filled with unforgettable moments of violence, courage, and spectacle.

His legendary war with Marvin Hagler remains a centerpiece of boxing history and, in the eyes of many historians and fans, one of the toughest fights Hagler ever endured.

What Mugabi gave boxing cannot be measured by titles alone. He gave the sport excitement, fearlessness, and unforgettable drama inside the ring.

And for that, his name will always echo in the annals of boxing history.

A Question for Boxing Fans and Historians

Was John “The Beast” Mugabi the greatest knockout artist the Light Middleweight division has ever seen?

Or do fighters like

• Julian Jackson

• Thomas Hearnes hold stronger claims to that title?

Did Mugabi give Marvin Hagler his toughest fight as champion, or does another challenger deserve that distinction?

#BrainBoxingSport

▪️The Kenya league has over the years continued to offer boxers stiff competition moulding them into hard nuts to crack for future tough encounters in major international events
▪️ The oldest league in Africa is this year celebrating its 45th birthday since inception in 1981

April 18, 2026

The Kenya National Boxing League – *the oldest boxing league in Africa* – contributed a great deal to Robert Wangila’s historic achievement at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, where he became the first black African boxer to win an Olympic gold medal.

In this photo Wangila (right), representing Cargo Handling in the 1985 Kenya National Boxing League, was fully stretched by Posta’s Ken Munikah before emerging the winner on points at the Ofafa Maringo Social Hall in the light-welterweight class.

Posta gave away three walkovers and Cargo one walkover at light-heavyweight for Posta’s Sullu Okello – who fought Evander Holyfield at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics – to earn two easy points without throwing a punch. The result was a 16-16 points draw.

The Kenya league has over the years continued to offer boxers stiff competition moulding them into hard nuts to crack for future tough encounters at major international tournaments culminating in some memorable victories at the big stage.

Wangila later moved to Breweries Boxing Club on being offered a job as a truck driver.

Ahead of the Seoul Olympics, Wangila moved up to light-middleweight to challenge 1988 Olympic bronze medallist Chris “Bingwa” Sande in a 1987 league match between Breweries and KDF at Desai Memorial Hall.

Wangila was walking tall by then being among Kenya’s eight gold medallists in the 1987 African Games in Nairobi.

The southpaw Sande showed Wangila the light-middleweight was his fort with a deserved points victory. Wangila quietly returned to his welterweight division. Coincidentally, Wangila and Sande (bronze) were Kenya’s medallists at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

Such has been the intensity of competition in the Kenya National Boxing League which is this year celebrating its 45th birthday since inception in 1981.

boxersworld.co.ke

▪️TBF secretary-general Makore Mashaga says the Kenyan R&J will have multiple roles to play in the six-day national open championships

April 17, 2026

Kenya’s acclaimed boxing referee and judge Leila Said has began reaping from her elevated status in the squared circle.

As the trailblazing Mombasa-based mother of four sons basks in the glory of East Africa’s first ever female Star-3 R&J, invitations have began pouring in for Leila.

She has been invited to officiate in the prestigious Tanzania Open National Boxing Championships from April 20-26 in Dar es Salaam.

“We have officially written to our counterparts Boxing Federation of Kenya requesting for the services of Leila Said in our championships,” Tanzania Boxing Federation (TBF) secretary-general Makore Mashaga told boxersworld.co.ke.

“Apart from officiating which will give her more knowledge and experience, we want Leila to mentor our female boxers and our R&Js, we’re proud of her presence in our championships, and acknowledge her new status,” said Mashaga.

TBF will cater for transport and accommodation of the elite Kenyan R&J.

Turning to the Tanzania Open National Championships, Mashaga said over 50 female and male boxers are expected to take part including the elite boxers.

Among the international boxers to trade leather in Tanzania’s premier boxing championships are Africa Zone 3 light-heavyweight champion, Yusuf Changalawe, Zone 3 female bantamweight silver medallist Zulfa Macho, Ezra Paul, Issa Faki and Kassim Mbundwike.

“We will also organise a national certification course to run concurrently with our tournament,” said Mashaga

Mashaga said sports entry checks will be conducted on April 20 to register all the participants from 3pm.

“After the entry checks we will have a technical meeting to conduct draws and fixtures for the championships,” said Mashaga reminding all clubs to avail their coaches and managers during the sports entry checks.

▪️The Honourable Minister is not new to the sport, having previously served the association as a Referee & Judge

April 17, 2026

The Botswana Boxing Association is pleased to announce that the Honourable Minister for Child Welfare and Basic Education, Nono Kgafela-Mokoka, has accepted the role of Patron of BoBA.

This marks a significant milestone for boxing progress in Botswana, reflecting the growing support and commitment towards the development of the sport, especially at grassroots and youth level.

The Honourable Minister is not new to the sport, having previously served BoBA as a Referee & Judge, bringing valuable experience and understanding of boxing administration and development.

She is expected to be officially unveiled as patron at the launch of the National Boxing League taking place on April 18-19, 2026 at Molefi Senior Secondary School.

Commenting on having the Minister on board, BoBA President Dirang Thipe, a former star national team boxer, said: “We’re excited to have our Honourable Minister back in boxing. We expect her to play a key role in our plans to resume boxing in schools so as to have strong grassroots development.”

President Thipe went on: “We welcome this development and look forward to work together to grow and strengthen boxing across the country.”

Since Thipe’s election as BoBA President, there’s a renewed sense of vigour in boxing renaissance in the Southern African country now looking forward to the launch of the national league.

• In 1981, Kenya became the first country in Africa to introduce a boxing league.

This year marks the 45th birthday since the inception of the popular Kenya National Boxing League which has been the undisputed crucible of Kenyan pugilism, transforming raw talent into household names and forging the legendary “Hit Squad”.

It is not merely a competition, but a foundation upon which Kenya built its reputation as one of Africa’s boxing superpowers.

The league has been a talent funnel, anchored by strong clubs such as defunct Breweries, Posta, KPA, Police, KDF, Nakuru ABC and Prisons.

The stiff competition has been relentless, producing legendary fighters who in 1987 dominated the African Games, winning 8 gold medals in Nairobi. This domestic strength culminated in a crowning achievement: Robert Wangila becoming the first black African boxer to win an Olympic gold medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

boxersworld.co.ke

▪️The Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting held in December 2025 in Dubai, UAE. Key decisions were made with some clear focus moving forward for the organisation.
▪️The Board okayed targeted amendments to the IBA Technical & Competition Rules, including the introduction of a new heavyweight category (92-100 kg), removal of the Standing Eight Count in Elite Men Competitions

April 16, 2026

Lausanne, Switzerland:The International Boxing Association (IBA) Board of Directors convened via zoom for its scheduled meeting, addressing key governance, regulatory, and development matters critical in enhancing the future of international boxing.

Secretary General & CEO Chris Roberts OBE opened up the meeting on behalf of IBA President Umar Kremlev, welcoming board members and emphasizing the IBAs ongoing commitment to transparency, fairness, and global growth. The Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting held in December 2025 in Dubai, UAE.

Key decisions were made with some clear focus moving forward for the organisation.

Membership Expansion. The Board formally welcomed the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) as a full IBA member, reflecting the IBAs continued growth and outreach. Ongoing efforts to increase membership include active engagement with a number of other key National Federations.

Governance and Regulatory Updates

The Board approved significant amendments to the IBA Organisational Regulations, including clarifications on eligibility appeals, a renewed commitment to gender equality within committees, and the replacement of Continental Confederations with new Continental Units. The Board also endorsed the delegation of authority to the IBA Secretary General & CEO for technical amendments, streamlining regulatory updates.

BIIU Procedural Rules

Updates to the Boxing Independent Integrity Unit (BIIU) Procedural Rules were adopted, enhancing procedures for dispute resolution, ethics, and disciplinary matters. The revised rules reinforce confidentiality, legal representation, and equal treatment for all parties.

Technical and Competition Rule Amendments

The Board approved targeted amendments to the IBA Technical & Competition Rules, including the introduction of a new heavyweight category (92-100 kg), removal of the Standing Eight Count in Elite Men Competitions, and the implementation of the Referee Error Protest (REP) process to address objective officiating errors. These changes aim to further strengthen fairness, safety, and the credibility of IBA competitions.

Innovation and Development

The IBA reaffirmed its commitment to innovation by introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a support tool to enhance transparency and operational efficiency, while maintaining human oversight in decision-making. The Board also reviewed ongoing professional development initiatives, including international coaching and officiating courses, and specialized education in bare-knuckle boxing.

Official Visits and Outreach

Reports were presented on recent official visits to Cape Verde and Mexico, where IBA leadership engaged with national sports authorities, distributed equipment to local athletes, and explored new event opportunities.

IBA President Umar Kremlev concluded by reiterating the IBA’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of governance and sporting integrity stating: “These decisions reflect our shared vision for a stronger, more inclusive, and globally respected IBA”.