Joe “Smokey” Maphosa at a UK airport enroute to Harare
The countdown to the Zimbabwe Independence Boxing Bonanza has gathered momentum, with the first international contingent beginning to arrive in the country ahead of the blockbuster event set for this Saturday at the City Sports Centre.
Delta Force Boxing and MMA Academy director, Clyde Musonda, confirmed that preparations are firmly on course, with key officials and fighters expected to touch down between today and tomorrow.
French referee Bertrand Hasson, who will officiate the main bout, arrived in the early hours of today, while Britain-based Zimbabwean bantamweight sensation Joe Maphosa is expected to land around lunchtime.
Musonda said the staggered arrivals are part of a carefully coordinated logistical plan designed to ensure a seamless build-up to the tournament.
“Everything is flowing according to plan. We have been working around the clock with our partners to make sure all travel, accommodation and regulatory requirements are in place.
“The early arrival of key officials like the referee is critical to maintaining international standards, while the fighters will have adequate time to acclimatise before the weigh-in,” said Musonda.
The event, which has attracted participation from six countries in the region, is shaping up to be one of the biggest boxing showcases on the local calendar. All visiting teams are expected in time for Thursday’s press conference, with the official weigh-in pencilled in for Friday.
Musonda emphasized the significance of the tournament on the domestic and regional boxing landscape.
“This is more than just a boxing tournament; it is a celebration of Zimbabwe’s Independence through sport. We are bringing together some of the finest talent from across the region to compete on one stage.
“Our aim is to revive the culture of high-profile international boxing events in Zimbabwe while giving local fighters exposure against quality opposition,” added the promoter.
He said the Independence Bonanza also serves as a platform for emerging stars such as Maphosa, whose homecoming has generated considerable excitement among local fans.
“Joe ‘Smokey’ Maphosa represents the future of Zimbabwean boxing. Having him fight on home soil for the first time is a major boost not only for the event but for the sport as a whole. We expect a full house and an electric atmosphere on Saturday.”
Meanwhile, the boxing community has once again demonstrated its solidarity by mobilising resources to assist ailing boxer Ndodana Ncube, who remains hospitalised in South Africa.
Ncube is currently in his second week in the intensive care unit at a hospital in Mpumalanga after suffering a medical condition that required urgent intervention shortly after he had been declared winner in his most recent bout.
He has since undergone surgery and remains in a coma.
Family sources indicated that doctors are expected to perform another operation today in a bid to stabilise his condition.
Back home, fellow boxers, trainers and administrators have spearheaded fundraising efforts, with close to US$1 000 raised so far to assist with medical expenses.
The situation has been further complicated by logistical challenges facing Ncube’s father, who is based in Hwange and has encountered difficulties in securing travel documents to visit his son in South Africa.
Members of the boxing fraternity say efforts are ongoing not only to raise more funds but also to facilitate the father’s travel so he can be at his son’s bedside during this critical period.
And as excitement builds ahead of the Independence Bonanza, the contrasting mood within the boxing community reflects both the sport’s vibrancy and its enduring spirit of unity in times of adversity.
▪️The event is designed to combine elite-level combat with the energy of a major show, and there are plenty of reasons why this tournament already stands out
April 8, 2026
IBA’s new partnership with Nomad Fighting will officially debut on April 11 at Almaty Arena, where IBA NOMAD 14 promises a card built on action, personality and high-stakes matchups.
The event is designed to combine elite-level combat with the energy of a major show, and there are plenty of reasons why this tournament already stands out.
Shahobiddin Egamov’s warrior reputation
Reigning Top Dog champion Shahobiddin Egamov is already known to fight fans for his toughness and refusal to break under pressure. Egamov built his reputation the hard way — including a bout in which he kept going after losing teeth, and a title fight where both he and his opponent reportedly broke their hands yet continued trading for four rounds. Egamov still found a way to win, and that kind of grit makes any of his appearances a must-watch.
Zhalgas Zhumagulov’s top-level experience
Former UFC fighter Zhalgas Zhumagulov brings major name value and genuine elite-level experience. He has shared the cage with top opposition, including Joshua Van and title contender Manel Kape. He is also well known across the region as a former Fight Nights champion. When a fighter with that résumé enters this kind of format, it immediately raises the level of intrigue around the whole event.
A belt fight built for action
A title clash between Isa Tandovskiy Isaev and Vasif Abbasov adds even more weight to the card. Isaev is regarded as one of Russia’s top bare-knuckle fighters and has built a reputation around a brutal, aggressive style. He does not come to manage fights or slow them down — he comes to finish. That makes this matchup especially compelling, because when a fighter with that mentality is competing for a belt, fans know they are unlikely to get a cautious performance.
Unfinished business between Zhaparbergenov and Akparkhodjaev
Aidos Zhaparbergenov and Asror Akparkhodjaev meet again after their first bout ended in a draw. Neither man truly accepted that result, with both believing they had done enough to win. That unresolved tension gives the rematch a natural storyline: this time there will be a chance to settle the argument properly and answer the question of who is really better.
A striking rematch with a new dynamic
Zhuman Zhumabekov will face Wanderlei Lewandowski in another compelling rematch. Their first meeting, held under MMA rules, ended with the Brazilian winning by submission. This time the contest shifts into a stand-up battle, and that changes the equation. In a striking fight, Zhumabekov may have the edge in experience, which gives this second meeting a completely different feel from the first and makes it one of the most intriguing bouts on the card.
Taken together, these storylines give IBA NOMAD 14 real depth. There is proven toughness, international experience, a belt on the line, unsettled business from previous meetings and a format built to deliver action. For fans in Almaty and for viewers following the launch of the IBA–Nomad partnership, this is not just another tournament — it is a card with genuine character.
Kenya's Maurice "Kawata" Maina dashes to the neutral corner after flooring Uganda's Fred Muteweta in the 1988 FESCAABA Championships in Nairobi.
▪️Uganda won two gold medals while Zambia’s all five finalists lost but their light-middleweight Lewis Kasakula was robbed of victory against Malawi’s Mtendere
▪️Uganda’s Franco Wanyama takes Best Boxer Award for the second year running. He beat Kenya’s Martin “Nyoka” Ojuang in the finals
April 8, 2026
Dominant Kenyan boxers scooped eight gold medals to retain FESCAABA title in the finals of the 1988 regional championships at City Hall, Nairobi.
It was Kenya’s eighth time to win the East, Central and Southern Africa Boxing Championships since the inception of the tournament in 1971. The 1987 FESCAABA event also took place in Nairobi.
A highly enthusiastic sellout crowd at City Hall loudly applauded the mighty Kenyan boxers whose accomplishment in the regional event was a big morale booster ahead of the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
Kenya topped with eight gold, one silver and two bronze medals followed by Uganda 2-3-4, Tanzania 1-3-4, Zambia 0-5-3 and Malawi 1-0-3.
Enjoying sparkling form, light-flyweight Maurice “Kawata” Maina won Kenya’s first gold medal stopping Uganda’s Fred Muteweta. The Kenyan clicked into top gear in round two, subjecting the Ugandan to a barrage of two-fisted flurries for an eight count by referee Elisha Abetsi.
Muteweta visited the canvas in the third round. After counting the Ugandan twice referee Abetsi waved it off at 57 seconds of the third round.
Kenya’s other gold medallists were bantamweight Steve “Dempsey” Mwema, featherweight John “Duran” Wanjau, light-welterweight David “DK” Kamau, welterweight Robert “Aruba” Wangila, light-heavyweight Joseph “Nyundo” Akhasamba, heavyweight Harold “Schetzer” Obunga and super-heavyweight Chris “Marciano” Odera. Martin “Nyoka” Ojuang won silver with flyweight Anthony Ikegu and light-middleweight Mohammed “Bodi” Orungi taking home bronze medals.
Uganda’s two gold medals came via lightweight Charles Lubulwa and middleweight Franco Wanyama who was also voted the Best Boxer for the second year running after winning it in the 1987 FESCAABA Championships in Nairobi.
Uganda’s Franco Wanyama (right) beat Kenya’s Martin Ojuang (left) in the final middleweight bout.
Flyweight Benjamin Mwangata was Tanzania’s sole gold medal winner and light-middleweight Mtendere won Malawi’s gold medal through a controversial victory over Zambia’s Lewis Kasakula
Kenya’s captain Patrick “Mont” Waweru lost in the preliminaries to Zambia’s Lameck Mbao who won silver after losing in the finals to Uganda’s Charles Lubulwa.
The chief guest, Minister for Culture and Social Services Paul Ngei presented the overall winners trophy to Kenya’s deputy captain John Wanjau.
Some members of Kenya's winning team in the 1976 East and Central Africa Boxing Championships in Nairobi prepare to shake hands with President Jomo Kenyatta in 1976 at State House, Nakuru. From left Patrick "Mont" Waweru, Jackson Ouma, George Findo, Douglas Maina, Steve Muchoki, coach Peter Mwarangu shaking hands with the President, ABA Assistant Treasurer Johannes Apuoyo, Major Madoka and far right Minister of State Mbiyu Koinange.
▪️President Kenyatta invited Kenya’s winning team in the Nairobi FESCAABA Boxing Championships. Kenya won the regional event for the fourth time with 9 gold medals, one silver and a bronze
April 7, 2026
President Jomo Kenyatta was treated to an exciting night of boxing by Kenyan boxers at State House, Nakuru, in 1976.
The Nakuru visit was initiated by the Amateur Boxing Association of Kenya (ABA) chairman Major Marsden Madoka, a close ally of the late president having at one time been his bodyguard.
It was the first time ever – and the only one so far – for Kenya’s national boxing team to land a State House invite. In other State House visits, boxers did so in the company of Kenya’s contingent for major Games such as the Olympic, Commonwealth and African Games.
Dallas Muthurwa product Muchoki and James Njoroge, who learned his trade at YMCA, took their estate rivalry to Jomo’s backyard. Dallas boxers always felt they were superior to Bahati Estate pugilists.
So whenever Muchoki and Njoroge met it was war. They first clashed in the inaugural National Junior Tournament in 1971 at the Prisons Staff Training College gymnasium, opposite Wilson Airport with Muchoki overcoming Njoroge.
The action-packed encounter had President Kenyatta on the edge of his seat as Muchoki and Njoroge furiously exchanged punches. Muchoki prevailed.
In other highlights, featherweight Jackson Ouma beat Billy Kiremi, light-welterweight George Oduori outpointed James Njuguna, welterweight Raymond Juma beat Peter Odhiambo, middleweight Zack Amalemba defeated David Makumba, light-heavyweight Seif Mekonnen outponted Joseph Kabegi and heavyweight Fred Sabat beat C.Opiyo.
Before the fights pitting Kenya “A” and “B” teams, the boxers were introduced to President Kenyatta by ABA chairman Major Madoka. The President was accompanied by among others Vice-President Daniel arap Moi, Minister of State Mbiyu Koinange and Rift Valley PC Isaiah Mathenge.
Recalling the visit Muchoki, one of the nine gold medallists, said they felt greatly how honoured to fight at State House in the presence of President Kenyatta.
“We all felt big shaking hands with the President, he gave each one of us a token of appreciation,” Muchoki told boxersworld.co.ke.
An excited Veronica Mbithe in red attire with son Bruno and below right receiving her certificate from MCA Cecilia Wairimu who is the treasurer of Nairobi County Boxing Association...Photos and collage design by Duncan Kuria
▪️Kasarani Youth Club’s Morris Kimani dominated Africa Zone 3 champion Silus Onyango but to the surprise of boxing analysts and fans, the Police boxer was declared 3-2 winner
▪️Kenya Defence Forces dethrone bitter rivals Police but there was no overall trophy to show for their victory
▪️For the first time in the history of Kenya boxing, the Open event was livestreamed by BFK and boxers awarded medals, a milestone achievement
April 6, 2026
A highly contentious decision in men’s minimumweight dampened an otherwise well organized National Kenya Open Championships which was livestreamed for the first time in Kenya’s boxing history. Kudos BFK for funding this important venture in this era of digitization.
Irate fans at a packed Kaloleni Social Hall erupted in loud jeers and catcalls to show their disapproval on Police boxer Silus Onyango’s dubious victory in the minimumweight category. Some threw plastic water bottles towards the ring.
Kasarani Youth Club’s Morris Kimani dominated the exchanges against Africa Zone 3 champion Onyango but was denied victory.
Trained judges controversially sided with Onyango whom they surprisingly and shamefully declared the winner by a 3-2 decision despite Kimani outsmarting Onyango with superior technical boxing and scoring the cleaner shots against the brawling Police boxer. If anything, Kimani should have won the fight 5-0.
Normally a pressure fighter who likes fighting his opponents from the inside with rapid combinations, Onyango was not given room by the 21-year-old southpaw Kimani who kept him at bay with his darting jab spruced up by well timed combinations that made Onyango look ordinary.
What clearly came out is that Onyango is not a creative boxer capable of using a variety of styles against opponents who contain his brawling approach.
The big question remains: were the judges watching boxing or netball? It’s not fair to the boxers and coaches to be subjected to this frustration by knowledgeable judges who deliberately lean on one side for unknown reasons. The judges should look at themselves in the mirror and shout: shame on me!!!
Boxing Federation of Kenya (BFK) must arrest the situation but all in all officiating in the preliminaries, quarter-finals and semis went on very well save for the finals.
Eyebrows were also raised on the cruiserweight winner Humphrey Ochieng aka Jakababa of Police.
While the fight itself was a stinker and a sissy affair with no fireworks from able-bodied men, KDF’s Chris Ochanda deserved to win. With such a low-key approach, the duo can hardly make an impression at the big stage in this division.
On the choice of female and male best boxers, in my opinion I feel Pioneer Veronica Mbithe and bantamweight Dennis Muthama displayed a remarkable performance to win the award.
Bantamweight Dennis Muthama (in blue) was in a devastating form throughout the Kenya Open Championships.
Minimumweight Jane Wangare and featherweight sensation Chris Juma were declared the winners of the best boxer’s award but of course we all don’t think alike.
Muthama was in spanking form. Never before have I seen him put up such a devastating show, winning all his fights inside the distance. In the finals, Muthama proved he’s the bantamweight king with an explosive demolition of Chris “Tiger” Musyoki whom he stopped in the third round with a consistent dose of stinging combinations. Musyoki still remains a good prospect, and made a name for himself with an upset 3-2 points win over experienced international Shaffi Bakari in a closely contested bout which could have gone either way.
Mbithe showed a big improvement in her boxing, putting up a mature and clinical performance against unimpressive Lencer Akinyi whom she decked once and subjected her to three standing counts.
Lightweight Ben Juma was also on course for the award, in my opinion, but did not feature in the finals owing to an injury.
Ben’s brother, Chris Juma, outpointed Mwinyi Kombo in a dull featherweight bout that did not live up to its billing of a thriller. Kombo looked unfit and unprepared for the big event, running out of gas in the third round.
“Man Ngori” Robert Okaka, a world championships quarter-finalist, was in a no-nonsense mood, ruthlessly punishing Police’s light-heavyweight George Cosby with power-packed right punches that forced the referee to stop the fight in the second round to save a well beaten Cosby from a possible disaster.
World Championships quarter-finalist Robert Okaka aka Man Ngori (in red) demolished George Cosby in the first round to retain his Kenya Open light-heavyweight title
Overall, BFK did a commendable job especially transmitting the Kenya Open live for the first time in Kenya’s boxing history as well as awarding medals to the winners. Next time the medals should be accompanied by cash tokens. Regular Livestreaming helps in giving BFK’s tournaments more visibility, and eventually sponsors will come on board.
KDF DETHRONE KENYA POLICE
Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) clinched the 2026 National Kenya Open Boxing Championships overall title after a dominant performance in the four-day event that saw them win 9 gold medals and 23 points in their assault backpack, edging out their bitter rivals and 2025 Open Champions Kenya Police Service by a single point after collecting 6 gold medals and 22 points.
Kasarani Youth Boxing Club finished third with an excellent 8 points and one gold medal, tied with the most improved team, Kisumu County, who also received 8 points and a gold medal.
Interestingly, KDF went home without the overall winners trophy. There was nothing for winners and runners-up. Not good enough. Next year let’s see the winners receive an attractive trophy to dance with after winning.
1. Kenya Defence Forces (23)
2. Kenya Police Service (22)
3. Kasarani Youth Boxing Club 8
4. Kisumu County 8
5. Kenya Prisons Services 6
6. Sombea Boxing Inter-Clubs 6
7. Nairobi County 5
8. Nakuru ABA 3
9. Mombasa County 2
10. Kibra Youth Boxing Club 2
11. G44 Boxing Club 1
12. Lamu County 1
13. Kajiado County 1
14. Meru County 1
15. Laikipia County 0
16. Kiambu County 0
17. Homabay County 0
18. Dallas Boxing Club 0
2026 NATIONAL KENYA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS FINALS RESULTS
▪️Serious boxing followers urge President Ruto to transfer the hype and financial support the comedians enjoyed into structured support for amateur and professional boxing
▪️Boxersworld.co.ke has suggested an exhibition boxing match between President Ruto and the boss of Boxing Federation of Kenya Anthony Otieno aka Jamal to raise funds for amateur boxing which is the backbone of this combat sport
▪️Funds raised can be used to introduce BFK Pro Boxing Series to financially empower boxers given the current scarcity of employment opportunities for the fighters
▪️Boxing comedians Majembe and Mbavu Destroyer to visit President Ruto at State House, according to the organiser of their Kasarani circus show Oga Obinna
April 6, 2026
The immense enthusiasm surrounding the boxing match between social media influencers-turned pro boxers Majembe (Portifas Odipo) and Mbavu Destroyer (Ferdinand Omondi) has shone a spotlight on the popularity of boxing in Kenya, while raising critical questions about the support structure for amateur boxers in the country.
Majembe defeated Mbavu Destroyer via a technical knockout amid claims of a controversial blow.
The organiser of the fight pitting the two boxing comedians, Oga Obinna, has announced in a post on X that Majembe and Mbavu Destroyer will soon visit President William Ruto at State House.
“Do not block people’s blessings,” said Obinna in his post which has elicited divergent views with majority of readers on X vilifying Obinna for using the Kasarani circus show to campaign for President Ruto’s second term.
While the “Vurugu Fight Night” match, held at the Kasarani Indoor Arena on April 4, 2026, became a national sensation, generating hype usually reserved for international sporting events, the buzz around this match highlights a paradox in Kenyan boxing.
For many years now, top Kenyan boxers such as the renowned Philip Waruinge, his younger brother Sammy Mbogwa, Dick “Tiger” Murunga and Steve Muchoki, excelled in major events such as the Olympics and World Championships but never received the attention and financial rewards accorded to the boxing comedians.
The excitement generated by this circus should now usher in a blueprint for mainstream boxing revolution. This most successful sport in Kenya after athletics at the big stage urgently needs attention for the government to lead from the front by joining hands with the Boxing Federation of Kenya to come up with a Strategic Plan on Boxing Development focusing on BFK’s Ndondi Mashinani Initiative, constant exposure of Kenyan boxers and refurbishment of social halls in Nairobi, Nakuru, Mombasa and Kisumu to enable boxers train in a more conducive atmosphere and better facilities.
County halls in Nairobi where great boxers such as Steve Muchoki, David Attan and Muhammad Abdallah Kent honed their skills, are in dire need of refurbishment. Last week BFK staged their National Kenya Open Boxing Championships at the historic Kaloleni Social Hall. Like other county halls, Kaloleni is a picture of neglect and adandonment not to mention its deplorable sanitary facilities.
Given the scarcity of employment opportunities, its paramount for the government to use its muscle and bring on board the corporate world to support Kenya’s naturally gifted boxers in amateur and pro boxing.
For instance, the introduction of BFK Pro Boxing Series well funded by the corporates will be a big financial boost to the boxers given the fact that amateur boxers are these days allowed to feature in pro boxing while maintaining their amateur status.
The Kenya Professional Boxing Commission, the body in charge of regulating the barechested game in the country, will also benefit immensely if the government funds its activities.
Positively the Majembe, Mbavu hype has helped to popularise boxing but much will depend on the goodwill from President Ruto and his team to show their commitment on supporting mainstream boxing.
Fueled by TikTok, social media feuds, and dramatic face-offs, the fight drew enormous attention from the public and private companies, even resulting in a sold-out venue.
What cannot be denied is that Kenyans have a strong appetite for “crossover” events where entertainment, social media, and sports collide, often overshadowing real and serious boxing matches. BFK can of course spice their events with aggressive marketing and more entertaiment by including famous GenZ musicians but funding remains a big stumbling block.
Sanctioned by the Kenya Professional Boxing Commission, Majembe has spoken openly about the harsh reality of boxing in Kenya, noting that fighters are neglected, lack adequate financial rewards and poor infrastructure coupled with inadequate equipment.
Interestingly, President William Ruto has been a vocal supporter of the boxing comedians, reinforcing the influence of politics in Kenyan sports entertainment.
President Ruto pledged Ksh 2 million and reportedly delivered Ksh 4 million total via Lang’ata MP Jalang’o to facilitate the fight, with Ksh 1 million going to each fighter’s preparations and another Ksh 2 million to purchase tickets for fans.
The president’s open support of the comedy has been received with mixed reactions with some fans praising the president for his kind gesture while others viewed the intense focus of top political leadership on this match as a diversion from serious economic issues and a sign of support for, at times, unconventional or lower-standard “mediocrity” at the expense of established, high-performing boxers.
Huge financial stakes in this TikTok-fueled match (a Toyota Noah and large cash rewards) contrasts sharply with the lack of sponsorship for Kenyan boxers competing in Olympic-style boxing. Some of the famous Kenyan boxers are currently struggling and living in abject poverty, totally ignored by the government.
There is a growing concern that focusing resources on entertaining boxing comedians could cause Kenya to lose the prestige built by its traditional powerhouse status in amateur boxing.
That’s why supporters of mainstream boxing are calling on President Ruto to apply the same level of enthusiasm and financial support (like funding for Training/KSh4 million) towards the Boxing Federation of Kenya (BFK) to improve training facilities and welfare for serious boxers, to shield Kenya from becoming a “laughing stock” nation that rewards mediocre boxing comedians at the expense of talented Kenyan boxers who have brought the country fame in various international tournaments.
Top left Star-3 R&J Nelson Otieno aka Kinshasa Mobimba briefs Shaffi Bakari (left) and Chris "Tiger" Musyoki before his ill-fated trip to the canvas. Finally Otieno finds himself in unfamiliar territory on the canvas following an accidental tripping by Musyoki who looks at Nelson on the canvas with a lot of concern. Far right Emmanuel Omollo's hand is raised after outpointing KDF's international Washington Wandera and below left Shaffi evades Musyoki's jab and on the right minimumweight Morris Kimani in red attire on the offensive against Nakuru's Joseph Moses. Photos by Duncan Kuria
▪️Sensational Police southpaw Emmanuel Omollo beats Wandera for the second time with Shaffi falling to relatively unknown Prisons’ bantamweight Chris “Tiger” Musyoki ▪️KDF lead defending champions Police with 12 boxers in the finals while the cops have 8 ▪️Accomplished Star-3 R&J Nelson Otieno “beats the count” on his first ever visit to the canvas as a refereee ▪️”I’m sorry, I didn’t like it seeing the referee on the canvas it’s my mistake I tripped him,” says Musyoki in his apology to ref Nelson Otieno ▪️Today’s final highlights: Bantamweight Chris “Tiger” Musyoki vs Dennis Muthama Featherweight Mwinyi “Giant Killer” Kombo vs Chris Juma Lightweight Emmanuel Omollo vs Ben Juma Minimumweight Silus Onyango vs Morris Kimani Light-heavyweight Man Ngori Robert Okaka vs George Cosby Flyweight Pioneer Veronica Mbithe vs Lencer Akinyi Light-middleweight The Smiling Assassin Friza Asiko vs Claire Okwaluma. Cruiserweight Chris Ochanda vs Humphrey Ochieng aka Jakababa
April 4, 2026
A packed Kaloleni Social Hall witnessed an earthquake when experienced international boxers Shaffi Bakari and Washington Wandera suffered stunning upset defeats to ambitious young boxers in a hotly contested National Kenya Open semi-finals on Friday, April 3, 2026.
In a dramatic day, reputed referee and chairman of Boxing Federation of Kenya Referees & Judges Commission Nelson Otieno made his first ever trip to the canvas as a referee but he quickly “beat the count” in the bantamweight semi-final between Shaffi Bakari and his conqueror, former Jericho Boxing Club boxer Chris “Tiger” Musyoki who accidentally tripped Otieno aka Kinshasa Mobimba.
The conquerors: Top Police lightweight sensation Emmanuel Omollo and below Chris “Tiger” Musyoki who has profoundly apologised to Star-3 R&J Nelson Otieno for accidentally tripping him during his bantamweight semi-final bout against Shaffi Bakari, resulting in Otieno’s first ever trip to the canvas as a referee. Otieno quickly “beat the count” and the bout proceeded but he was now more cautious, avoiding being too close to the war-zone
The rivalry between defending Open champions Police and KDF intensified with the soldiers entering 12 boxers in the finals and Police 8.
Shaffi Bakari, a silver medallist in the 2019 African Games, gold medal medal winner in the 2022 Africa Zone 3 and bronze medallist in the 2024 Africa Elite Championships, narrowly went down 3-2 to Prisons’ Chris “Tiger” Musyoki who ventured into boxing in 2016 under coaches Nixon Bisto and Elijah Mringie.
Having previously lost twice to Shaffi, this time around the 21-year-old Musyoki had psyched himself for victory.
“My game plan was to defeat him because I had trained smart, I was positive from the bell I’ll win,” Musyoki, who stays in Bahati Estate, told boxersworld.co.ke in an interview.
Now selling milk and yoghurt for a living, Musyoki kept Shaffi close and had a better work rate than the experienced Police international boxer.
He got into boxing first by peeping through the windows at Jericho Boxing Club and eventually coaches Bisto and Mringie brought him on board.
“He’s a disciplined boxer with a bright future, despite joining Prisons’ in search of a job he still trains with us in Jericho,” says coach Bisto who is hopeful Prisons will employ him.
Musyoki, a switch hitter, also commented on the dramatic fall of international referee Nelson Otieno.
“I didn’t feel good seeing the referee on the canvas because it was my mistake,” said Musyoki, and went on: “I was rocking so that I can be able to counter Shaffi’s punches then I accidentally tripped the referee, he was so close to us, I’m really sorry for that incident.”
Ahead of the final bout today against KDF’s Dennis Muthama, Musyoki said:”I’ll defeat him, it’s now my time to represent the national team I’m ready.”
The second big upset saw Police’s 19-year-old southpaw Emmanuel Omollo score a 4-1 victory over KDF’s World Championships pre-quartefinalist Washington Wandera in the lightweight division to set up a mouth-watering final against on-fire Kasarani Youth Club’s Ben Juma who stopped Kisumu’s Eric Odoyo. The bout ended prematurely in the first round after Odoyo incurred a shoulder injury. Earlier, a head-on clash opened a deep gash above Ben Juma’s right eye. He hopes all will be well in the final.
Omollo dominated the proceedings in his fight with Wandera, preferring to fight from the inside against the taller KDF soldier who received an eight count in the first round. A heavy right punch from Wandera also saw Omolo counted by referee Kibunja Mwaura.
In the second round, Wandera decided to fight from outside, using his longer reach to pile on points but the tactical Omollo time and against dismantled Wandera’s defence to penetrate through with rapid combinations especially in the third round that saw Wandera receive another eight count. The bout was briefly stopped to give Wandera some respite after being punched below the belt by Omollo.
It was Omollo’s second victory over Wandera, the first one being in the final leg of the 2025 national league in Kisumu.
“I accept defeat, I gave it my all, he’s good but also a rough boxer I’ll meet him again losing is part of the game,” said the 31-year-old Wandera, a product of Kibra Olympic Club where he learned his trade under coach Hassan Salim from 2011.
Omollo, a product of Umoja Estate Gym under coach Mike Mungai, was calm and calculated in his response following his second victory over Wandera.
“I’m happy I’ve beaten Wandera again, I still respect him in the ring he’s my friend too. I’m now looking forward to another tough fight against Ben Juma in the final,” said Omollo.
World Championships quarterfinalist Robet Okaka aka Man Man Ngori sailed to the finals with ease stopping Mombasa’s Lazaro Odote in the first round.
Okaka displayed a new approach, working more on the body of Odote that eventually the referee waved it off on realising the Mombasa boxer was in pain following Okaka’s consistent energy-sapping body blows mostly aimed at Odote’s ribs. Okaka now meets Police’s stubborn George Cosby in the finals. Cosby, who has moved up from middleweight to light-heavyweight, stopped Kisumu’s Emmanuel Odhiambo in the first round.
In addition to the epic lightweight final between Ben Juma and Emmanuel Omollo, another cracker is the featherweight duel pitting Africa Zone 3 silver medallist Mwinyi “Giant Killer” Kombo of Police and Kasarani Youth Club impressive teenager Chris Juma, brother to Ben Juma.
This will be the second time they will meet in the Kenya Open final. The first one in 2024 at Terminus Park Hall ended with Mwinyi outpointing Chris who however felt he was the better boxer and should have won the fight.
Chris will definitely be out to prove his point against the big-punching Kombo who packs a lethal left hook. Kombo beat Lamu’s Rolex Otieno while Chris saw off KDF’s Joseph Gatamba with a second round abandonment of the bout.
Among other highlights, Africa Zone 3 champion Silus Onyango stopped Kisumu’s Wilfred Ouma in the second round to book a final date with Kasarani Youth impressive southpaw Morris Kimani.
Jericho-bred Flyweight Emmanuel Chondo, now boxing for KDF, outpointed Nakuru’s James Tachia, and will meet KDF teammate Kevin Karoga in the final.
Africa Zone 3 light-middleweight champion Friza Asiko aka The Smiling Assassin was too strong for Nakuru’s Winnie Shisali, stopping her in the first round for a final with Nairobi’s stubborn Claire Okwaluma who stopped Kajiado’s Precious Muthoni in the first round.
An entertaining female lightweight bout saw Police new find Rahab Mumbi outpoint Nairobi’s international Sylvia Ombwamu for a final battle against Kisumu’s Emmaculate Atieno. The latter stopped Doreen Kitui of G44 Club in the second. Police now have two female boxers, Mumbi joining African Games bantamweight bronze medallist Amina Martha.
A tough female flyweight bout is the offing featuring Africa Zone 3 champion Veronica “Pioneer” Mbithe of KDF and Nairobi’s Lencer Akinyi. While Mbithe got a bye to the finals, Lencer was pushed to the brim by Mombasa’s Dora Mkacharo enroute to a 4-1 victory.
The 12 KDF boxers in the finals are Emmanuel Chondo, Kevin Karoga, Veronica Mbithe, Dennis Muthama, Pauline Chege, Warren Onyango, Fred Omondi, Friza Asiko, Edwin Okong’o, Alvin Oduor, Robert Okaka and Chris Ochanda.
Defending champions Police’s eight boxers in the finals are Silus Onyango, Mwinyi Kombo, Emmanuel Omollo, Rahab Mumbi, Stephen Onyango, Humphrey Ochieng aka Jakababa, Georgy Cosby and Amina Martha.
▪️African Games champ Edwin Okong’o, Zone 3 minimumweight king Silus Onyango, Giant Killer Mwinyi Kombo, Shaffi Bakari and Dennis Muthama book semis slots with boxing brothers Chris and Ben Juma making a strong statement
April 3, 2026
Top international boxers maintained their march to the finals of the high-octane BFK National Kenya Open Championships at the historic Kaloleni Social Hall on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
Female boxers among them Africa Zone 3 light-middleweight champion Friza “The Smiling Assassin” Asiko step into the ring in today’s semi-finals thriller; so will World Championships quarter-finalist Robert “Man Man Ngori” who battles Mombasa’s Lazaro Odote. God give the Coastal boxer strength to withstand Okaka’s carpet bombing approach.
The highlight of today’s semi-finals is the gripping tension-charged lightweight encounter between World Championships pre-quarter finalist Washington Wandera and rising star Emmanuel Omollo. This fight will further fuel the fierce rivalry between defending Open champions Police and Kenya Defence Forces who have vowed to dethrone the cops.
Soldier Wandera will fight tooth and nail to avenge the defeat by the promising southpaw Omollo in the final leg of the 2025 national league in Kisumu.
Omollo is a determined 19-year-old youngster eager to represent the national team, and has made his intentions known with impressive victories so far.
In Thursday’s quarters, Wandera, a product of Kibra Olympic Club under coach Hassan Salim, stopped Churchill Kalla of Sombea in the first round after subjecting him to an eight count while stylish Omollo put up a dominant show enroute to a 5-0 victory over Kajiado’s Fernando Odhiambo.
The most impressive boxer so far and one of the favourites for the lightweight title, Ben Juma, was in the driver’s seat punishing Lamu’s Francis Oduor with heavy body and face shots but the resilient Lamu boxer stood firm to last the full course, Ben Juma prevailing 5-0. Both ended with one eight count each.
Ben and his younger brother Chris Juma have made a strong statement in the Kenya Open Championships. Indeed they’re ripe for the national team but 18-year-old Chris, a fourth form student at Mwiki Secondary School, still has one year left to join the elite national team.
Chris and Africa Zone 3 featherweight silver medallist Mwinyi “Giant Killer” Kombo won their quarter-final bouts and are likely to meet in Saturday’s finals. Chris, boxing for Kasarani Youth Club, beat Kajiado’s Peter Mwanzia 5-0 while Kombo stopped Sombea’s Abdul Rahim in the first round for a date with Lamu’s Rolex Otieno who beat Euticus Njau of G44 in the quarters.
With big-punching Caleb “Sugu” Wandera away attending Police training at Kiganjo, the light-welterweight title is up for grabs. Africa bronze medallist Aloice Vincent of Prisons, KDF’s impressive Pius Macharia and Sombea’s Ayub Waweru are among the favourites.
Aloice, shaking off some rust after the Prisons training, made heavy weather in beating Kibra’s Mansur Adams, Waweru stopped Prisons’ Francis Riziki and Macharia outpointed Mombasa’s Abdallah Juma.
In the minimumweight, Africa Zone 3 champion Silus Onyango of Police was fully stretched by Nairobi’s John Burugu on his way to a 5-0 victory but the highlight was the closely contested fight between Morris Kimani of Kasarani Youth and KDF’s Abdi Mohammed with Kimani winning on points.
All the bantamweight quarter-final bouts ended inside the distance.. Long-serving international Shaffi Bakari set the pace by stopping Kajiado’s Ibrahim Ntheleku in the first round and his rival Dennis Muthama following suit with a first round stoppage win over Meru’s Eric Gitonga. Shaffi and Muthama are all set for a big battle in Saturday’s finals if they win their semis today.
African Games middleweight champion Edwin Okong’o showed his class in stopping Nairobi’s Bradley Ochieng in the third round. The middleweight berth has attracted eight boxers. Sergeant Okong’o stands heads and shoulders above them all.
Okongo’s stiffest challenger, George Cosby of Police, has moved up to light-heavyweight and is likely to test the might of explosive puncher Robert Okaka aka Man Man Ngori in the finals. Cosby stopped Sombea’s Oliver Omondi in the second round in the quarters while Cosby’s Police teammate Humphrey Ochieng aka Jakababa received a walkover to move to the cruiserweight semis without throwing a punch. Jakababa’s main challenge here will come from KDF’s Chris Ochanda who has welcomed the Police boxer in the cruiserweight division but warns him not to expect sissy treatment if they meet in the finals.
“I’m not taking it lightly, I’ll defend my territory without fear or favour,” says the former Ruaraka Boxing Club boxer whose skills were honed by the late coach Jonte.
All in all, 20 fights failed to last the full distance in the quarters.
African Military Games champion and Zone 3 gold medalist Friza Asiko aka Smiling Assassin leads the women in today’s semis when she takes on Nakuru’s Winnie Shisali in the light-middleweight class. In the other semis, Nairobi’s intermediate champion Claire Okwaluma meets Kajiado’s Frecius Muthoni.
In the remaining semis, Prisons’ Grace Atieno will take on Phelister Oduor of Dallas in the minimumweight class, the winner meeting Prisons’ international Jane Wangare.
At flyweight Nairobi’s Lencer Akinyi faces Mombasa’s Dora Mcharo, the winner taking on Zone 3 champion Veronica Mbithe of KDF in the finals.
African Games bantamweight bronze medallist Amina Martha awaits the winner of the semis between Nairobi’s Mary Anyango and Mombasa’s Frida Mercy while in the featherweight class, it’s a straight final between international Paul Chege of KDF and Nairobi’s Joyce Nyaga.
Only 21 female boxers entered the National Kenya Open Championships. BFK needs to dig deep to find out why there’s a decline in women’s participation in such a major event.
The Open Championships has so far delivered entertaining bouts spiced with a thrilling display from the rising stars aiming to dethrone the regulars.
Kaloleni Social Hall has been buzzing with sharp sounds of leather hitting leather amid the roaring packed house, turning the hall into a pressure cooker of boxing talent.
The battles have been characterised by relentless pressure with the lightweight class featuring rapid fire combinations and tactical manouvres and the heavier weights have showed raw power as heavy punches explode on target, inviting thunderous cheers of appreciation from the crowd.
As the tournament enters the semis today, the battle is expected to be more intensive with KDF and Police boxers engaging in fierce exchange of fire for the overall title currently held by the cops.
Full quarter-final results of the 2026 National Kenya Open Boxing Championships at Kaloleni Social Hall on April 3.
Men 75Kgs
🟥 Maxwel Michael SOMBEA (0)
🟦 Kennedy Omollo KIBRA (5)
🟥 Evans Bosire NAKURU (0)
🟦 Stephen Onyango POLICE (5)
🟥 Lawrence Ombwochi KAJIADO
🟦 Martin Onyango KISUMU (RSC1)
Lamu's lightweight prospect Francis Oduor (right) was one of the outstanding boxers in Day One of the BFK National Kenya Open Boxing Champioships at Kaloleni Social Hall on April 1, 2026. He stopped Kisumu's Paul Onjwang left) in the third round.
▪️Boxing brothers Ben and Chris Juma, Dennis Muthama, Emmanuel Omollo, Lamu’s Francis Oduor, Musa Juma and KDF’s Abdi Mohammed and Pius Macharia light up Kaloleni Social Hall
April 2, 2026
Rising boxing stars dominated the opening day of BFK’s National Kenya Open Boxing Championship at the crowded Kaloleni Social Hall, delivering thrilling performances and dazzling display of speed as the tournament enters the quarter-finals today.
Big up to Juma brothers Benedict and Chris, KDF’s Dennis Muthama, teammate Pius Macharia and newcomer Abdi Mohammed, Emmanuel Omollo of Police, Lamu’s Musa Juma and Francis Oduor among the boxers who lit up Day One of the National Kenya Open Championships.
Lightweight Benedict Juma of Kasarani Youth Club put up the standout performance of the day beating Fidel Okoth of Nairobi “B” 5-0. He displayed a smart repertoire of nice body shots and then going upstairs in a bout which should have been stopped earlier because Okoth was on the receiving end throughout the fight.
Equally impressive was Emmanuel Omollo of Police in outpointing Mombasa’s Vincent Ochieng. There’s a possibility of the promising southpaw Omollo battling lightweight top seed Washington Wandera in the semi-finals if both of them win their quarter-final bouts today.
International Wandera has a date with Churchill Karia of Sombea while Omollo meets Kajiado’s Fernando Odhiambo in the quarter-finals. Ben Juma meets Lamu’s Frank Oduor.
KDF’s bantamweight Dennis Muthama was in a ruthless mood enroute to a second round stoppage victory over Sombea’s Eric Ondicho. The victory sets up Muthama for a possible final showdown with his rival Shaffi Bakari of Police. The experienced international Shaffi starts his campaign today in the quarter-finals against Kajiado’s Ibra Thereku.
National novices and intermediate welterweight champion Elvis Lincoln moved down to light-welterweight hoping to do better but found the going rough in losing to KDF’s Pius Macharia, a product of Umoja Gym coach Mike Mungai. Macharia simply outwitted Lincoln neutralizing all his moves.
World Championships quarter-finalist Robert Okaka of KDF will not be in action until Fridays semi-finals against Mombasa’s Lazaro Odote, and from the look of things the big-punching Okaka is favoured to retain his Kenya Open title as he faces meek and inexperienced opposition.
Okaka’s Police rival, Humphrey Ochieng aka Jakababa has moved up to cruiserweight and opens his account in today’s quarter-finals against Mombasa’s Muhammad Hassan.
The female boxers enter the ring from the semi-finals on Friday with a thin entry of only 21 boxers.
African Games bronze medallist Amina Martha has received a bye to the bantamweight finals, waiting for the semi-finals winner between Mary Anyango of Nairobi and Mombasa’s Frida Mercy. Amina, unbeaten since her 2019 defeat to Alice Waiyego, is hotly favoured to retain her Open bantamweight title.
At featherweight, international Pauline Chege will take on Joyce Nyaga of Nairobi in the finals with only two entrants in this berth.
Africa Zone 3 light-flyweight champion Veronica Mbithe of KDF has received a bye to the flyweight finals, and meets the semi-finals winner between Nairobi’s Lencer Akinyi and Mombasa’s Dora Mcharo.
Another Kenyan female Africa Zone 3 champion, Friza Asiko, is favoured to lift the light-middleweight title. Friza first meets Nakuru’s Winnie Shisali in the semis with Nairobi’s Clare Okwaluma battling Kajiado’s Precious Muthoni in the other light-middleweight semi-final.
At minimumweight, Prisons international Jane Wangari has received a bye to the finals, and awaits the winner of the semi-finals encounter against her clubmate at Prisons, Grace Atieno and Philister Oduor.
Day One full results of the BFK National Kenya Open Championships at Kaloleni Social Hall
▪️National Kenya Open Championships explodes into action with 134 boxers – 113 men and 21 women – from 18 teams battling it out for personal and team glory ▪️Jakababa moves up to cruiserweight and will not meet rival Robert Okaka who has beaten him five times
April 1, 2026
The ring is set and the gloves are laced as Kenya’s upcoming and established boxers trade leather in the National Kenya Open Boxing Championships at the Kaloleni Social Hall, Nairobi, from 3pm today, April 1, 2026.
The one million dollar question remains: which team will end the domination of defending Open champions Kenya Police and KDF, placed second overall in the 2025 Kenya Open at Charter Hall.
The two service teams have dominated boxing in Kenya for over a decade since the demise of top clubs such as Breweries, Posta, Railways and Kenya Ports Authority.
Among the international boxers taking part are Africa Zone 3 minimum champion Silus Onyango, flyweight Emmanuel Chondo, Shaffi Bakari, Dennis Muthama, World Championships quarter-finalist Robert “Man Man Ngori” Okaka, African Games champion Edwin Okong’o, Zone 3 silver medallist Mwinyi Kombo, Washington Wandera and fast-rising boxing brothers, Chris Juma and Benedict Juma.
The 18 teams taking part are Police, KDF, Prisons, Lamu, Homa Bay, Nairobi, Kibra,Kajiado, Meru, Dallas, Sombea, Kisumu, G44, Kiambu, Nakuru,Laikipia, Mombasa and Kasarani Youth.
In women’s category, some of the top boxers in action include Africa Zone 3 champions Veronica Mbithe and her KDF teammate Friza Asiko.
Mbithe has received a bye to the flyweight finals, awaiting the winner of the semis bout between Nairobi’s Lencer Akinyi and Dora Mcharo. Friza meets Nakuru’s Winnie Shisali in the semis on Friday.
Shaffi, Kombo, Wandera, Aloice Vincent and Alvin Oduor and Edwin Okong’o have received byes to the quarters and will not be in action until on Thursday.
Bantamweight Muthama steps into the ring today against Eric Odicho of Sombea while at feather Chris Juma of Kasarani Youth opens his account against Kisumu’s Frank Omondi with his elder brother Ben Juma meeting Fidel Okoth of Nairobi B.
Robert Okaka will fight on Friday in the semis against Lazaro Odote of Mombasa, and Jakaba in Thursday’s quarters against Mohamed Hassan of Mombasa at cruiserweight.
