▪️She’s going for her third light-flyweight title in a row in the National Open Boxing Championships at Charter Hall from April 1-4
March 29, 2026
Smooth-talking Africa Zone 3 light-flyweight champion Veronica Mbithe aka Pioneer (pictured) is a perfect blend of feminine elegance and intellectual violence when in the ring.
While Mbithe brings girlish touch in boxing, she remains committed on the ideals of this tough combat sport that requires resilience, determination and perseverance.
Not many fans are aware that the Landy Mawe-bred Mbithe is going for a treble in the Boxing Federation of Kenya’s National Open Boxing Championships starting on April 1 at Nairobi’s Charter Hall.
She’s the two-time National Open light-flyweight champion. Victory in the finals will enable her win the Open title for three times in a row, emulating the doyen of women’s boxing in East Africa Liz Andiego who has won the Open title a dozen times.
In the 2025 Open Championships, Mbithe outpointed Nairobi’s Faith Nafuna in the finals of the light-flyweight division.
The Armed Forces Corporal put up a polished display, showing considerable improvement in her boxing style, getting over her past swimming approach.
With Nafuna now in Eldoret attending KDF training, Mbithe is unchallenged unless a newcomer springs a surprise. Much will be known during the weigh-in and boxers registration in the light-flyweight category next Wednesday.
Mbithe horned her skills at Dallas Boxing Club from 2014 under coach Charles Mukula who at one time had to intervene to convince Mbithe’s mum, Esther Nziva, to let her daughter pursue boxing.
To show her dislike for the sport, Mbithe’s mum had hidden her training kit in a desperate attempt to keep her away from boxing.
Hours of persuasion by coach Mukula forced Mbithe’s mum to reluctantly accept her daughter remains in boxing.
Mbithe’s employment by KDF, however, changed her negative perception on boxing. She became a big beneficiary of her daughters earnings as she poured money on her salon business that is now thriving.
Mbithe the pioneer became the first ever female boxer to be employed by KDF in 2018, paving way for others such as Friza Asiko, Pauline Chege and Agnes Wambua to follow suit.
Her diligence at work enabled Mbithe rise to the rank of Corporal, becoming the first female boxer to be promoted to that position.
In a past interview with boxersworld.co.ke, Mbithe attributed her success in life to boxing. “Through boxing, I now have a job, and I’m now a Corporal,” says Mbithe, adding: “Boxing has empowered me greatly not forgetting changing my family’s life, it also has opened other avenues and channels, I urge female boxers to work hard and be patient to make it in life.”
Whom does Mbithe single out for her success in boxing and the military?
“My success is not just pegged on one person but several notably Colonel Paul Mungori who gave us women a chance in the KDF boxing team, secondly coach Charles Mukula who taught me boxing straight after high school at Dallas Boxing Club in Muthurwa Estate, I still visit Mukula at Dallas to train with him and encourage boxers at my former club. I can’t forget my roots, Mukula made me what I am today in boxing.”
Mbithe has several admirers including rising boxing giant Ellah Demesi who recently represented Kenya’s youth team in the Futures U19 tournament in Bangkok, Thailand.
A member of Kibra Youth Club, Ellah is following in the footsteps of Mbithe.
She’s among the upcoming female boxers who will throng Charter Hall to watch their idol Mbithe doing her thing in the National Open Championships.
Don’t miss the National Open Championship showdown. It’s going to be a blast.
For the uninitiated: “Intellectual violence” in the boxing ring refers to the use of high-level boxing intelligence (Fight IQ), strategy, and psychological manipulation to dominate an opponent, rather than relying solely on brute physical strength. It is the mental aspect of “The Sweet Science,” where a boxer breaks down an opponent’s patterns, exploits weaknesses, and forces them into mistakes, turning a physical contest into a tactical, often psychological, battle.
▪️In the main card Zvikomborero Chemhere vs Marlon Chirevo for National Flyweight/Inaugural Independence Title ▪️The return of celebrated Kudakwashe “Take Money” Chiwandire vying for National Super-Featherweight title against Patience Mastara ▪️Zimbabwe’s business tycoon Taurai Tungwarara, CEO of Tenga Zonke Inc will sponsor this Deltaforce historic event which has received the government’s approval for use of national emblems on championship belts
March 29, 2026
As Zimbabwe gears up for its 46th Independence anniversary, the nation’s ring warriors are preparing to turn the City Sports Centre into a battleground of resilience and ambition.
The Independence Day Boxing Bonanza, set for April 11, 2026, is not just a fight night; it is a declaration of purpose, combining high-stakes pugilism with a crusade against youth drug abuse.
Organized by Deltaforce Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts Academy’s Director Clyde Musonda, the card is headlined by two massive national title fights designed to showcase local talent.
In the premier 12-round encounter, Zvikomborero Chemhere and Marlon Chirevo will go toe-to-toe for the national flyweight title. The stakes are raised even higher as the winner will also be crowned the inaugural Independence Day Champion, walking away with two belts.
Top left is one of Africa’s top promoters and matchmaker Clyde Musonda, the brains behind this massive show on April 11. Well done Clyde for a job well done.
Former WBC Interim Super-Bantamweight champion Kudakwashe “Take Money” Chiwandire returns walking tall to battle it out with Patience Mastara for the national super-featherweight title. This fight, featuring the female Independence Day championship belt, is a testament to the growth of female boxing in the region.
Fighting for a Purpose
Promoter Clyde Musonda of Deltaforce Academy highlighted that the event aligns with the nation’s 46th Independence celebration, aiming to empower young boxers and offer them an alternative to the growing scourge of drug and substance abuse.
“This Boxing Bonanza carries a message far beyond the ring — it is a call to action,” organizers noted, stressing the event’s mission to foster discipline and national identity in the spirit of independence.
National Flyweight Championship (12 Rounds) Zvikomborero Chemhere vs. Marlon Chirevo
National Super-Featherweight Female Title (10 Rounds): Kudakwashe Chiwandire vs. Patience Mastara
National Lightweight Title (12 Rounds): Nyasha Phiri vs. Delan Kanyemba
National
Super-Bantamweight Title Revai Madondo vs. Sehliselwe Nhliziyo.
The tournament has received government endorsement, allowing the use of national emblems, highlighting its importance on the national calendar.
Ardent boxing fans can’t wait to see their ring queen Chiwandire (6-4-1) back in action.
She’s one of the most popular boxers in Zimbabwe and a magnetic crowd puller.
Kuda, as she’s affectionately known by some of her admirers, made her professional debut on November 28, 2015, outpointing Barbara Banda.
Fast forward to February 26, 2022. Chiwandire upset fancied Zambia’s former WBC world bantamweight champion Catherine Phiri to capture the vacant WBC female interim super-bantamweight title at the Government Complex in Lusaka.
Her burning ambition to dethrone Mexico’s WBC world super-bantamweight champion Yamileth Mercado on March 18, 2023, went up in flames when she lost by a unanimous decision in Chihuahua, Mexico.
Among the international fights, Zimbabwe’s UK-based Joseph Maphosa (15-1-1, 2 KOs) will for the first time fight on home soil against Malawi’s Aubrey Masamba in a six-round flyweight bout.
Maphosa is eagerly looking ahead to touch down in Harare to fight before home supporters to honour the country of his birth.
“I can’t overemphasise how happy I am to be returning home for this fight,” Maphosa told heraldonline.co.zw/zims
“I am looking forward to the duel. I am a bit anxious but very happy for obvious reasons.
“I started boxing when I was only 13 at a club in Middlesbrough, England. I then went on to box for Team GB Olympic Team in 20as an amateur together with Anthony Joshua (gold medallist), Josh Buast from Ghana and also Nicola Adams (gold medallist).
“I spent over two years training in the same gym with Antony Joshua. I learnt a lot from him and I believe he rubbed a lot onto me.
“I signed a professional contract with Frank Warren and Bt Sports.
“So, I have some experience and I want to promise Zimbabwean fans a lot of fireworks when I face Masamba.”
Maphosa is not new to fighting African boxers as his last fight was against former continental champion Issac Qauye whom he defeated by KO.
The April 11 card will be promoted by a former Zimbabwean international boxer, Clyde Musonda, the Director of Delta Force Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts Academy. He is also the matchmaker.
Kudos to Zimbabwe’s business tycoon Taurai Tungwarara, the CEO of Tenga Zonke Inc, for shouldering the heavy and important responsibility of sponsoring this eagerly awaited showdown.
Speaking during the launch, promoter Musonda said: “As Delta Force Boxing and MMA Academy, we are deeply humbled and profoundly grateful
to the Government of Zimbabwe, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency
Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, for affording us this invaluable opportunity to be part of
this year’s Independence celebrations.
“This gesture is not only a recognition of the role sport
plays in nation-building, but also a powerful endorsement of boxing as a vehicle for youth
empowerment, discipline, and national pride.
We sincerely thank the Government for its continued support in nurturing sporting talent and
creating platforms where young Zimbabweans can showcase their abilities, tell their stories,
and inspire a nation.
Ladies and gentlemen, boxing is more than just a sport—it is a symbol of resilience, courage,
and determination.
“These are the same qualities that define Zimbabwe and its people. As we
prepare for this Boxing Bonanza, we are not just organizing an event; we are building a
movement—one that celebrates our independence while investing in the future of our youth.
“In alignment with His Excellency’s Vision 2030 framework, Delta Force Boxing and MMA
Academy stands firmly committed to the fight against drug and substance abuse. We
recognize that our young people are the cornerstone of our nation’s future, and we must
protect them from the scourge of drugs that threatens to derail their potential. Through boxing
and structured sporting programs, we aim to provide positive alternatives, mentorship, and
purpose-driven pathways for our youth.
“This Boxing Bonanza therefore carries a message far beyond the ring—it is a call to action.
We call upon individuals, corporates, and all stakeholders across Zimbabwe to come on
board and support this noble initiative. Your partnership, sponsorship, and participation will
not only contribute to the success of this event but will also play a crucial role in shaping a
healthier, more disciplined, and empowered generation.
“Let us unite—businesses, communities, and citizens alike—in celebrating our independence
through sport. Let us invest in our youth, support their dreams, and stand together in the fight
against drug abuse.
Together, we can make the Zimbabwean Independence Boxing Bonanza a resounding
success and a lasting legacy for generations to come.”
That’s Clyde Musonda, one of Zimbabwe’s most successful promoters narrating the importance of the April 11 card. He deserves a hefty pat on the back for putting together this massive boxing extravaganza. It has not been easy for Clyde but through patience and passion to lift Zimbabwe and Africa boxing as a whole he finally succeeded to bring sponsor Tungwarara on board and receiving the government’s support.
We appreciate you Tungwarara for your generous sponsorship. This show should now mark the beginning of your long association with our friend Musonda. He means well for the game.
A featherweight rematch looms between Mwinyi Kombo (left) and sensational schoolboy Chris Juma (right).
▪️Battle looms large between Kombo, schoolboy Chris Juma and KDF’s Isaac Meja
March 27, 2026
Africa Zone 3 silver medallist Mwinyi Kombo aka Giant Killer has joined Kenya Police ahead of the National Open Boxing Championships scheduled for Nairobi Charter Hall from April 1-4, 2026.
Kombo has been boxing for Kenya Prisons before moving to the defending Kenya Open and National League champions nicknamed Chafua Chafua.
A silver medallist at the 2025 Africa Zone 3 Championships in Nairobi, Kombo is among the international boxers who have joined Police. Others are Zone 3 bronze medallists, featherweight Paul “Pacman” Omondi, light-welterweight Caleb Wandera and welterweight Wiseman Kavondo.
Omondi, Wandera and Kavondo have already been employed and currently undergoing training at Kiganjo Police College.
The cops are beefing up their team for the new season, and with Kombo on board, they’re well represented in the featherweight class.
Kombo is currently training in Mombasa and will join the cops next Monday in readiness for the National Open which starts on Wednesday.
Sparks will fly in the featherweight division with sensational form four student at Mwiki Secondary, Chris Juma, baying for Kombo’s blood. Isaac Meja is a likely choice for the soldiers who are playing their cards close to the chest.
Chris still believes he beat Kombo in the final of the 2024 Kenya Open at Green Park Terminus Hall.
“I want to prove I’m the best featherweight in Kenya, I’ve trained well ready for Kombo and others,” Chris, who will represent Ruaraka Youth, told boxersworld.co.ke. Kombo relinquished his featherweight title to Nairobi’s Michael Ndonga.
Chafua Chafua will be without Africa light-middleweight champion Boniface Mogunde owing to unavoidable circumstances.
In the absence of Mogunde, the cops can talk to Steve Olang to hold fort. Olang makes his pro debut tonight in the Kalakoda Promotions card.
Lausanne, Switzerland, — The International Boxing Association welcomes the recent shift in approach by the International Olympic Committee regarding athlete participation criteria, recognizing it as a significant step toward reinforcing fairness and integrity in women’s sports.
March 26th, 2026
Earlier in 2025 The executive order of USA President Donald Trump “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” regarding the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 proved that the IBA stood firm, rightfully protecting female boxers from unfair competition.
On Thursday, after a a long road to common sense, the IOC has announced a new Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women’s) Category in Olympic Sport and Guiding Considerations for International Federations and Sports Governing Bodies.
IBA views the IOC’s position as a validation of the principles the IBA has upheld for years and as an important moment for international sport. The IBA stands ready to work with all stakeholders to promote consistent, transparent, and fair standards across all competitions.
Umar Kremlev, President of the IBA:
“Finally, this era of such erosion of integrity in sports is over. The IOC simply had no other choice. For years, they turned a blind eye to what was destroying the very meaning of women’s sports, and now they are forced to correct their own mistakes.
It is a victory for common sense that the IOC has finally arrived at the same principles the IBA has defended for years. We established clear participation criteria long before it became ‘obvious’ to the rest of the world. We have always protected our female athletes, especially when others chose silence or political convenience.
We must save women’s sports. Gender equality must be absolute. Athletes deserve to compete on a level playing field, knowing their rights are non-negotiable. This is about justice, respect, and the very survival of women’s competition.”
The IBA emphasizes that it has long championed policies designed to ensure fair competition and protect the rights of athletes, particularly in women’s boxing. The association has consistently maintained that clear eligibility criteria are essential to preserving trust in sport and safeguarding competitive balance.
The IBA remains committed to its mission of protecting athletes, upholding integrity, and ensuring that boxing continues to be governed by principles of fairness, respect, and equality.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry's good job is already being witnessed
▪️Eligibility for any female category event at the Olympic Games or any other IOC event, including individual and team sports, is now limited to biological females, determined on the basis of a one‑time SRY gene screening
March 26, 2026
International Olympic Committee
International Olympic Committee announces new Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women’s) Category in Olympic Sport.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a new Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women’s) Category in Olympic Sport and Guiding Considerations for International Federations and Sports Governing Bodies.
Following today’s approval of the policy by the IOC Executive Board, it will apply for the LA28 Olympic Games onwards, and is not retroactive
▪️Eligibility for any female category event at the Olympic Games or any other IOC event, including individual and team sports, is now limited to biological females, determined on the basis of a one‑time SRY gene screening.
▪️Evidence‑based and expert‑informed, the policy applicable for the LA28 Olympic Games onwards protects fairness, safety and integrity in the female category.
▪️It is not retroactive and does not apply to any grassroots or recreational sports programmes.
The policy explains that, for all disciplines on the sports programme of an IOC event, including the Olympic Games and for both individual and team sports, eligibility for any female category is limited to biological females.
Eligibility for the female category is to be determined in the first instance by SRY gene screening to detect the absence or presence of the SRY gene.
Based on scientific evidence, the IOC considers that the presence of the SRY gene is fixed throughout life and represents highly accurate evidence that an athlete has experienced male sex development. Furthermore, the IOC considers that SRY gene screening via saliva, cheek swab or blood sample is unintrusive compared to other possible methods.
Athletes who screen negative for the SRY gene permanently satisfy this policy’s eligibility criteria for competition in the female category. Unless there is reason to believe that a negative reading is in error, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime test.
With the rare exception of athletes with a diagnosis of Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS) or other rare differences/disorders in sex development (DSDs) who do not benefit from the anabolic and/or performance-enhancing effects of testosterone, no athlete with an SRY-positive screen is eligible for competition in the female category at an IOC event.
Athletes with an SRY-positive screen, including XY transgender and androgen-sensitive XY-DSD athletes, continue to be included in all other classifications for which they qualify. For example, they are eligible for any male category, including in a designated male slot within any mixed category, and any open category, or in sports and events that do not classify athletes by sex.
Speaking about the policy, IOC President Kirsty Coventry said: “As a former athlete, I passionately believe in the rights of all Olympians to take part in fair competition. The policy that we have announced is based on science and has been led by medical experts. At the Olympic Games, even the smallest margins can be the difference between victory and defeat. So, it is absolutely clear that it would not be fair for biological males to compete in the female category. In addition, in some sports it would simply not be safe.”
She continued: “Every athlete must be treated with dignity and respect, and athletes will need to be screened only once in their lifetime. There must be clear education around the process and counselling available, alongside expert medical advice.”
Why was the policy developed?
The IOC administration was tasked with drafting a policy on the protection of the female category in an Olympic context that would reflect the findings of the Working Group on the Protection of the Female Category, various IOC consultations, and consideration of recent developments, including in international human rights law.
The policy was developed on the basis that it is universally accepted that providing for a female category is necessary to allow both males and females equal access to elite sport. It was guided by the IOC’s modern goals relating to equality (equal opportunities for female athletes in finals, on podiums and in championships); enhancing Olympic value (featuring both women’s and men’s finals in every sport); and visibility and inspiration (celebrating female athletes on the Olympic podium to inspire and represent women and girls worldwide).
What were the findings of the working group?
The working group reviewed the latest scientific evidence, including developments since 2021, and reached a clear consensus. Male sex provides a performance advantage in all sports and events that rely on strength, power and endurance. To ensure fairness, and to protect safety, particularly in contact sports, eligibility should therefore be based on biological sex. The group also agreed that the most accurate and least intrusive method currently available to verify biological sex is screening for the SRY gene, a segment of DNA typically found on the Y chromosome that initiates male sex development in utero and indicates the presence of testes/testicles.
How was the policy developed?
The policy is the result of an IOC review between September 2024 and March 2026, and included consideration of the IOC’s policy goals for the female category, which are, in addition to ensuring fairness, safety and integrity in elite competition, to promote equality, enhance Olympic value and increase visibility for the female category. For these reasons, the Olympic Movement has a compelling interest in having a sex-based female category.
The review included consultations with a range of experts in relevant fields, and lessons learned and feedback from Olympic Movement constituents, including International Federations (IFs) and athletes from around the world, including athletes potentially impacted by any new policy.
As part of the review, in September 2025 the IOC established a working group to specifically examine scientific, medical and legal developments since 2021. The working group members came from all five continents and included specialists in sports science, endocrinology, transgender medicine, sports medicine, women’s health, ethics and law. As a separate part of the working group, International Federation Chief Medical Officers representing individual and team sports were also included.
In addition, athletes provided crucial feedback in three ways: through an online athlete survey that received over 1,100 responses; through in-depth individual interviews with impacted athletes from around the world; and via a presentation to and discussion with members of the IOC Athletes’ Commission. Feedback from the athlete consultation revealed that, although nuances exist across sex and gender, region and athlete status (active/retired), there was a strong consensus that fairness and safety in the female category required clear, science-based eligibility rules, and that protecting the female category is a common priority.
The policy has been developed through an athlete‑centred approach that prioritises athletes’ human dignity, physical and psychological health and well‑being, and safety. Their right to privacy and confidentiality should be respected. IFs and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) should lead the education of athletes and entourage members, with a particular emphasis on the responsibility of coaches, managers and entourage members to support the athlete’s autonomy, privacy and well-being, and to refrain from sharing information beyond authorised channels. They should ensure access to mental health and safeguarding support, provide clear early guidance on SRY gene screening and, where appropriate, align it with regular sports health checks. They should also maintain safe, accessible channels for information, concerns and reporting, with specific safeguards for minors. This education and guidance should provide reassurance that all athletes have a place in sport according to their age, sex and skill, and that biological sex-based eligibility criteria (including SRY gene screening) are not a judgement on, and do not question, the athlete’s legal sex or gender identity.
Who should adopt this policy?
This policy should be adopted by IFs and other sports governing bodies, such as NOCs, National Federations and Continental Associations, when exercising their responsibility in implementing eligibility rules in relation to IOC events only.
It replaces all previous IOC statements on this matter, including the Framework on Fairness, Inclusion and Non-discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sex Variations.
It is important to note that this policy does not apply to any grassroots or recreational sports programmes.
Liz Andiego with national team deputy head coach David Munuhe at the Police Depot Gym in Mathare. She remains part and parcel of Kenya's national boxing team despite deciding to fight as a pro.
▪️With IBA now allowing boxers to fight in pro and amateur boxing Liz aka Mkono Chuma is infact looking forward to the Africa Championships to captain Hit Squad
March 26, 2026
Who said Liz Andiego has quit amateur boxing? And that she will not represent Kenya’s national boxing team nicknamed Hit Squad? Far from it.
As this picture shows, Liz is still part and parcel of Kenya’s national team and is looking forward to represent the country in the 2026 Africa Men’s and Women’s Elite Boxing Championships in which there’s a total of $1000,000 at stake, courtesy of IBA whose prize money tournaments have become very popular and useful to boxers worldwide in this era of commercialisation in sports with medals gradually losing their meaning.
I caught up with Andiego doing her workouts under the national boxing team deputy head coach David Munuhe who is also the Secretary-General of the Boxing Federation of Kenya.
“Andiego is still with us, huyu ni wetu,” Munuhe told boxersworld.co.ke.
“We allowed her to fight as a pro to maintain her shape and gain ring time because she has no opponents in Kenya,” said Munuhe as he held pads for Andiego at the Police Depot Gym in Mathare.
Andiego has not fought a Kenyan opponent for three years now. They’re all scared of her.
As Andiego prepares to take on Tanzania’s Nelusigwe Mdemu on Friday, March 27, 2026, in Kalakoda Promotions card at Masshouse along Ngong Road, she has also responded to some fans and former boxers who have been suggesting it’s time for her to call it quits.
“I advice them to let me decide on my own when I’ll quit boxing, surely I don’t know what’s itching them. They should let me do my job to make money when I’m still strong,” Andiego told boxersworld.co.ke in an interview.
“IBA rules specify clearly 40 years is the age limit, I’ve not reached there, and once I’m 40, I’ll still continue fighting as a pro until such a time I feel my mind is not coordinating well with my body.”
Andiego recalls at the 2022 Women’s World Championships in Istanbul, Turkey’s heavyweight Sennur Demir won gold at 39 years defeating Morocco’s icon Khadija Mardi in the finals. Andiego lost to Turkey’s Elif Guneri in the quarter-finals of the light-heavyweight berth.
Commenting on her pro debut against the Tanzanian boxer, Andiego said while she normally respects her opponents, Mdemu should be ready for her fists of stone.
“I’ll punch her hard she feels me, I’ll be in charge of the fight l’ll not let her play around with me,” said the 38-year-old Andiego, East Africa’s most decorated female boxer.
The last time Andiego fought a Tanzanian boxer was during the 2025 Africa Zone 3 Championships in Nairobi. She stopped Salma Changalawe in round two of the middleweight semi-finals, and in the finals Andiego dropped a suspicious points defeat to DR Congo’s Mwamba Lulua.
Andiego was due to have made her debut on February 27 against another Tanzanian boxer, Christina Raura, but the bout was cancelled just hours before the fight due a medical issue.
Word has it her pressure had exceeded the maximum allowed during a fight. Such cases are common in boxing when some boxers’ pressure shoots up especially if one is meeting a tough opponent.
Top left Marie Joelle Mwika and below is her middleweight opponent from Zimbabwe Monalisa Sibanda and the main poster with all the female boxers in action on April 18 in Lubumbashi.
▪️Marie Joelle Mwika, her younger sister Brigitte Mbabi, Nyembo Giselle and Diyoka Benedicte are among DR Congo’s female boxers to set alight Lumbumbashi
March 26, 2026
Reigning Mandela African Boxing Cup light heavyweight champion Marie Joelle Mwika leads an array of renowned DR Congo boxers for an all-female card on April 18 in Lubumbashi.
The 25-year-old Mwika will face Zimbabwe’s highly regarded Monalisa Sibanda (7-12-0), the first professional boxer from the southern African country.
In addition to Mwika, other leading DR Congo’s top boxers expected to set alight Lubumbashi are Mwika’s younger sister who is the reigning Africa and Mandela Cup welterweight champion Brigitte Mbabi, Africa and Zone 3 flyweight champion Nyembo Gisele and Africa, Mandela Cup and Zone 3 minimumweight champion Diyoka Benedicte will also be in action at the Attene Hewa Bora Arena.
Commenting on her Zimbambwean opponent, Mwika, making her second appearance in pro boxing, said she can’t lose at home.
“She cannot beat me at home in Lumbumbashi, this is where I was born,” Mwika told boxersworld.co.ke
“I’ve not seen her boxing but that’s not a problem, I’m better than her, I’m not aiming for a KO, if happens fine.”
Marie Joelle Mwika (left) is declared the winner in her pro debut against Eyenga Fila whom she outpointed in a four-round heavyweight bout on September 26, 2025.
Mwika is training at the Simba Ndoki Gym under coach Mathias Kitos.
Among other medals she has won for her country since making her international debut in 2018 are silver and bronze at the African Elite Men’s and Women’s Championships.
Mwika made her pro debut on September 26, 2025, outpointing compatriot Eyenga Fila from Matadi, the chief sea port of DR Congo and the capital of Kongo Central Province.
Owing to inactivity at home, Sibanda has mostly been fighting outside Zimbabwe. She is a regular feature in Kenya’s capital city Nairobi where she has fought Conjestina Achieng, Fatuma Zarika, Florence Muthoni and Everline Adero, her only victory being against Muthoni.
Mbabi, who is currently training in Kinshasa, said she has yet to be told the opponent she will fight.
“I’m ready for any boxer, I’m in top shape,” said Mbabi.
Mbabi and her elder sister Mwika started learning boxing in 2016 at the Muhammad Ali Gym under their father and coach the late Mwika Bamanya Emmanuel Blaise.
Their mum, Mbabi Brigitte, is their number one fan. She will definitely attend the show accompanied by her last born daughter Mulanga Meta.
The card was earlier scheduled for March 28th, but due to organizational hitches, the fights were postponed to April 18th.
A fierce exchange of gunfire looms between bitter rivals Kenya Police and KDF in the National Open Championships at Charter Hall from April 1-4. Among the highlights is the lightweight battle between KDF international Washington Wandera pictured in blue attire during the 2025 Men's World Championships in Dubai and stubborn newcomer Emmanuel Omolo (top pic right). He shocked Wandera with a points win in the 2025 national league final leg in Kisumu.
▪️KDF soldiers are reportedly “digging trenches at night” near Charter Hall preparing for the ambush and will use every arsenal at their disposal to win the National Open Championships.
March 25, 2026
The 2026 Kenyan boxing scene is set to explode with the continuation of one of the country’s most intense boxing rivalries between the Kenya Police aka “Chafua Chafua” and the Kenya Defence Forces.
A dramatic 2025 season saw Kenya Police reclaim the national league title and won the National Open Championships as well.
This year’s National Open, scheduled for Charter Hall from April 1-4, is therefore poised to be a high-stakes battle of power, technique, and pride.
Known for their aggressive boxing, “Chafua Chafua” will be looking to prove that their 2025 win was the start of a new dynasty while the challengers, KDF, will capitalise on their tactical proficiency, rapid adaptation and a never-say-die attitude.
Christened Operation Tame Chafua Chafua, KDF are using their skills in the battlefront to plot a well executed attack to flatten Police.
After narrowly losing the 2025 open title, KDF are expected to bring fierce competition to the 2026 National Open showdown to regain the title and pride to their comrades in the barracks.
Police won the overall National Open 2025 title with 24 points, KDF second on 23 and third-placed Prisons 11, Nairobi and Siaya a jointly fourth with 9 points, Kibra 6, Kisumu 4, Kongowea and Nakuru 2 each.
KDF will heavily rely on their women’s team which topped in the 2025 Open Championships with 7 points followed closely by Siaya on 6, Police and Kibra 3 each. Police’s only female boxer is African Games bantamweight bronze medallist Amina Martha.
Police however had an edge over KDF in men’s category winning on 21 points with KDF amassing 16 points to finish second. The 7 points from their women’s team shot them up to 23, almost toppling Police.
Among the key rivalries include bantamweight Dennis Muthama (KDF) vs Shaffi Bakari (Police), lightweight southpaw Emmanuel Omolo vs soldier Washington Wandera, African Games middleweight champion Edwin Okong’o vs cop George Cosby and world light-heavyweight quarter-finalist soldier Robert Okaka vs Humphrey Ochieng with “Man Man Ngori” enjoying five consecutive wins over Jakababa.
The lawmakers will miss the services of their promising flyweight Diouf Muimi who has been employed by KDF together with Nairobi County boxers, flyweight Faith Nafuna and Sheila Auma. They are still undergoing training in Eldoret.
New Police recruits, all Zone 3 bronze medallists, featherweight Paul “Pacman” Omondi, light-welterweight Caleb Wandera and welterweight Wiseman Kavondo will also miss the action as they’re still at Kiganjo Police Training College.
It is a matter of public record that the entity regulating professional boxing in Nigeria traces its informal origins to 1947—13 years before independence.
While claiming unbroken continuity, it was not formally established until registration as an incorporated trustee with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 1986. No statutory law, federal decree, or legislative instrument grants it exclusive or perpetual authority. The green-white-green flags are symbolic at best; they confer no governmental affiliation.
Criminal investigations are already underway into its operations, including allegations of financial misconduct, off-book accounts, and irregularities in licensing and sanctioning.
These probes—stemming from numerous petitions and insider disclosures—underscore the urgency for reform.
It is particularly lamentable that young boxers, who are the sport’s future, have aligned with this status quo through public demonstrations. Not all boxers are aware of the full extent, but some—especially those most favored by the NBBofC—are well aware, and their loyalty stems from it. Many of those visible in such protests hold records inflated by staged bouts from fabricated BoxRec accounts. (They are busy fighting old men and women in staged bouts) This is the tactics employed by the NBBofC to bolster these boxers’ records.
For example:
Ali Shaibu. https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/681815
A boxer who boxed in Ghana and won his first two bouts. He stopped since 2015 but his profile was revived from 2019 using different unknown persons to impersonate Ali. This account went on to fight against the following:
1. Taiwo Olowu – 2019
2. Riliwan Lawal – 2021
3. Suleiman Jafaru – 2021
4. Rasheed Adeyemo – 2021
5. Tunde Segun Adeyemi – 2022
6. Osita Umeh – 2022
7. Samuel Opaogun – 2022
8. Yusuf Adeniji – 2022
9. Yusuf Ayinde Ogunbunmi – 2022
10. Timmy Baimolda – 2022
11. Babatunde Oyesiji – 2023
12. Ayanfe Adeoye – 2023
13. Isreal Awodeko – 2023
14. Ibrahim Taofeek – 2024
15. Chigbo Elisha Obizulike – 2024
16. Abdul-Azeez Rilliwan Sarumi – 2024
17. Raheem Animashaun – 2024
18. Raheem Animashaun – 2024
19. Olalade Jamiu Oyesiji – 2024
20. Basiru Abdulwaheed – 2024
21. Alaba Babatunde Omotola – 2024
22. Emmanuel Abimbola – 2025
23. Alaba Babatunde Omotola – 2025
24. Moruff Akanji – 2025
25. Sodiq Oyakojo – 2025
26. Lucky Oyibo – 2025
27. Adeogun Awwal – 2025
28. Adekunle Opeyemi – 2025
29. Godwin Ezekiel Oparanusi – 2026
The links below show three of Ali’s fights being impersonated by three different boxers:
Further investigations show this profile has been impersonated by the NBBofC to build their favorite boxers—most of whom are on the list and members of the protest. This is just one out of numerous fake accounts on BoxRec. Some of these boxers whose profiles are being used are already dead, but Remi and his cronies don’t care.
When accountability prevails, those records will collapse, and individuals will face personal liability for fraud, bribery, and undue influence that have suppressed genuine talent.
Modern commissioning bodies worldwide—such as those aligned with WADA and international federations—mandate rigorous protocols: comprehensive pre-fight medical examinations (including brain scans, eye tests, and hydration checks), certified ringside doctors, emergency personnel, mandatory anti-doping testing (in-competition and out-of-competition), whereabouts reporting, education programmes, and strict sanctions for violations. Licensing is conflict-free, payments traceable, and results transparently recorded.
Contrast this with the current regime’s approach: medical clearances often reduced to a cursory “are you okay?” followed by a fist bump by Mr. Boxing laughable in any serious context, yet deemed sufficient for professionals risking their health. No brain scans, no anti-doping rigour, no verifiable safeguards. This is not oversight; it is negligence.
Listen, change has come to stay. The Nigeria Boxing Federation’s Professional Boxing Commission introduces licensing portals, national rankings, rulebooks, and dedicated directorates for medical safety, anti-doping, and integrity. This is not usurpation—it is alignment with global standards.
The era of archaic, unaccountable control ends here. Stakeholders must choose: defend relics, or embrace progress. Integrity will prevail over love for corruption.
▪️NBB have have accused NBF of interfering in pro boxing instead of concentrating on amateur boxing
March 24, 2026
Two bulls are currently locked in a pitched battle in Nigerian boxing.
In the red corner is the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), and in the blue corner is Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF) which has been accused of usurping the powers of NBB, the traditional authority regulating pro boxing in Nigeria in charge of issuing licenses and sanctioning pro fights.
NBF has estabilished a new Professional Boxing Commission to regulate pro boxing but the NBB are taking none of it, and are even ready to shed blood to defend their territory and daily bread. War is war!!!
Tension is high with NBB bigwigs accusing NBF of chewing more than they can swallow.
Top guns at NBB led by President Dr. Rafiu Oladipo want NBF to streamline amateur boxing first instead of involving themselves with pro boxing.
They claim NBF, under President Wale Edun who’s Minister of Finance,
have minimal knowledge on pro boxing, and should therefore concentrate on amateur boxing.
Guns have been uncorked! This standoff is shaping up into another marathon battle typical in African boxing characterised by power struggle at the expense of the boxers, the main actors in the sport.
One wonders why can’t African boxing leaders learn to sort out their issues with decorum. They ought to know that the boxing fraternity is fed up of their selfish struggle for power yet the continent has yet to make an impact at the global stage.
