Algeria here I come...Lukeman Shaffi aka Jibaba, son of Kenya's top boxer, Shaffi Bakari, is in Kenya schools team heading to Algeria.
SHAFFI BAKARI’S SON HEADING TO ALGERIA FOR SCHOOLS GAMES ▪️Lukeman Shaffi will represent Kenya in the boxing event with Sonia Atieno
A 13-year-old pupil at New Wisdom Preparatory School in Mombasa, Lukeman “Jibaba” Shaffi, has finally fulfilled his cherished ambition of flying out of the country to represent Kenya at an international tournament.
Lukeman and national novices and intermediate light-welterweight champion, Sonia Atieno from Kisumu County are in Kenya’s team for the inaugural African Schools Games scheduled for Algiers, Algeria, from July 26-August 6.
Lukeman, 41kg, and Atieno will take part in the boxing tournament with bright hopes of eventually graduating to the elite national team.
The teenager is the son of one of Kenya’s top international boxers, Shaffi Bakari, a bronze medallist at the 2024 AFBC Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships in Kinshasa, DR Congo.
Lukeman and Sonia Atieno all set for their maiden flight.
The two junior boxers will be handled by the head coach of Kenya’s national team, Musa Benjamin, who is also an accomplished junior and youth boxing coach. Benjamin has previously travelled with Kenya’s teams to the Commonwealth Youth Games in 2008 and 2011.
It’s a dream come true for Lukeman, a grade six pupil at New Wisdom Preparatory School in Mombasa. He started boxing in 2022 under coach Issack Kweyu Makokha aka Izoo who used to train him at his house before moving to Legacy Gym in Bamburi.
“I’m really proud of my son as a boxer and a parent. I didn’t expect my son to emulate me so soon,” says an elated Shaffi Bakari who first represented Kenya in the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games in the British Crown Dependency of the Isle of Man.
“Lukeman has always been telling us he wants to be like me fly out of Kenya to fight in big tournaments,” Bakari told boxersworld.co.ke
On his son’s prospects in Algeria, Bakari says:”I believe he’ll come back with a medal. I thank Allah for enabling him to make it in the junior team that’s travelling to Algeria. He has even broken my record because I started representing Kenya when I was 18 and he has done it at 13 years old, he has worked hard, and he is now under the head coach of our national team. I believe he will learn a lot from Musa Benjamin.
“I also thank his sponsor Ace Standard for financing his training at Legacy Gym in Bamburi.”
Lukeman’s mother, Saida Salama, is over the moon and she can’t believe her son is travelling out of the country to represent The Kenya schools team.
“As a parent, I’m happy to see my son realising his dream of following in his father’s footsteps, we are so happy and proud of him,” says Saida, adding: “He has always been telling me he wants to fight for Kenya like his father and win medals, today Allah has made his dream come true we wish him the very best of luck in Algeria, Pwani juuuu!!”
Lukeman with parents Shaffi Bakari and mum Saida Salama
Bakari says Lukeman likes eating ugali and chapati which he believes give him more strength in the ring.
“I told him you’ll meet tall opponents in Algeria and you’re short, and he said he’s not scared of anybody because they have two hands and two legs like him,” says Shaffi currently employed by the Kenya Police. It’s his boxing talent which landed him a job in the service. They poached him at Mwanandondi Boxing Club where he was being coached by a former international champion, Lemmy “Cobra” Katibi.
Bakari represented Kenya’s elite national team for the first time in the 2017 Africa Championships in Congo Brazzaville winning a bronze medal in the light-flyweight class and later in Hamburg, Germany for the World Championships. His most significant achievement so far was at the 2019 African Games in Rabat, Morocco, where he won a silver medal in the flyweight division.
The head coach of Kisumu County, Vincent Odongo, is equally impressed by his 18-year-old boxer Sonia Atieno, who is travelling to Algeria for the inaugural African Schools Games.
In a statement, Odongo says: “On behalf of all Kisumu coaches we are proud and happy to see that one of our girls, Sonia whom we nurtured so well, is now at the top of the bar representing Kenya, we are so confident that she is going to emerge the winner.
“Sonia herself is positive and grateful at the same time, she said that it is a life time experience going to Algeria to raise the Kenyan flag high. She urges our young girls to join boxing and even reminded them that what a man can do, a woman can do it better through hard work, determination and prayers.”
▪️ The Kenyan youngsters lost 5-4 to East Coast Boxing Club in Uganda
Supa Loaf-sponsored Kayole Rapid youthful boxers lost 5-4 bouts but put up a commendable performance against Uganda’s East Coast Boxing Club in an international friendly match in Gulu, Uganda, on July 19, 2025.
The four boxers who won their fights are minimumweight Daniel Mutie, featherweight Eric Muchanga, lightweight Victor Kanja and Mohamed Samson who defeated Uganda’s Watmon Davisiha in the junior category 43-45kg.
Supa Loaf-sponsored Kayole Rapid boxers in Gulu before their match against East Coast Boxing Club of Uganda.
Former Kenyan top international, Kenneth “Valdez” Ochieng, the owner of Kayole Rapid, hailed his boys for their valiant show and that the tour was an eye opener for them.
“The exposure was very useful for our team, they have learnt a lot from their more experienced opponents,” said Ochieng.
Ochieng thanked Supa Loaf bread company for sponsoring their trip to Kampala, urging them to maintain their support for Kayole Rapid Boxing Club and if possible employ some of the boxers.
The Kampala invitation was extended to Kayole Rapid by the Khalili twin brothers, Hassan and Hussein, the owners of East Coast Boxing in Kampala.
AGIT KABAYEL, THE FIRST WBC HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION OF TURKISH ORIGIN
Born on September 23, 1992, in Leverkusen, Germany, Agit Kabayel is the first boxer of Turkish origin to become a WBC heavyweight champion.
Although German by birth, Kabayel’s parents are originally from Pazarcik, a city and district located in southern Turkey.
This isn’t the first time Agit has won a WBC belt. In 2014, three years after his professional debut, he became the WBC Mediterranean heavyweight champion after defeating Nigerian Gbenga “Bang Bang” Oluokun by split decision.
Then, in May 2024, Kabayel captured the WBC Continental Americas heavyweight belt by knocking out then-champion Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sánchez in a spectacular performance at the Kingdome Arena.
Then this February, Agit Kabayel fought Zhilei “Big Bang” Zhang in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight went six rounds as the German once again demonstrated his knockout power when he sent the Chinese fighter to the canvas, crowning himself WBC interim champion.
He currently holds an undefeated professional record, winning 18 of his 26 fights by knockout.
Agit Kayabel awaits his well-deserved shot at the Absolute WBC heavyweight title.
AGIT KABAYEL WANTS USYK
Agit Kabayel is eyeing a potential fight with The Ring and undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
▪️ The late Kenyan boxer was so happy and excited he had turned professional in Japan
On a bright Sunday morning in August 16, 1981, Isaiah “Danicho” Ikhoni was in seventh heaven when we met in the Central Business District of Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi.
We had agreed with Ikhoni the previous day to meet in town and then board a matatu (public transport vehicle) heading to Langata Women’s Prison.
There were no mobile phones by then. If we were to meet anywhere it was through word of mouth, and Ikhoni was very particular with time, always punctual. He didn’t like late comers. Therefore, I made sure I kept time.
I had never seen Ikhoni in such a vibrant mood as we shook hands and then we went to board matatus heading to Langata Women’s Prison where we were to hook up with Napunyi Oduori at his wife’s house. Eva, Napunyi’s better half, was a Prisons warder; so was Napunyi who had by then resigned from Kenya Prisons Service.
“Naona leo umepiga rivals wako wa magazeti KO, (I can see today you’ve KO’d your rivals in the newspapers),” a smiling Ikhoni jokingly told me as he went through the back page story of Nairobi Times that exclusively reported Ikhoni and Napunyi had turned professional in Tokyo, Japan.
I burst out laughing too because I was also excited that my two buddies had turned professional, and of course I had this proud feeling of conquest in scooping more experienced sports journalists such as my friend, the late Stephen Ongaro of the Daily Nation, who was doing remarkably well in reporting boxing. By then I was a rookie Sports Journalist with the Weekly Review/Nairobi Times publications owned by the late Hilary Ng’weno, one of Kenya’s most respected journalists and media owner from whom I learnt a lot.
There was even more excitement and strong handshakes on arrival at Langata Women’s Prison.
Napunyi and family welcomed us warmly each one of us mesmerised of the impending trip to Japan by the two Kenyan star boxers.
“Eva leo nataka ugali ya kushiba unajua vile Waluhya tunakula, sijui kama tutakula ugali lini tena” (Eva today I want to eat enough ugali you know how we Luhyas eat, I don’t know when I’ll eat ugali again),” Ikhoni told Napunyi’s wife as we settled down. The three of us decided to sit outside to enjoy the fresh air, sip our drinks and talk nothing else but boxing.
A jovial Napunyi went through the back page story of Nairobi Times, a weekly Sunday newspaper that had his photo with Ikhoni headlined: NAPUNYI, IKHONI TURN PROFESSIONAL.
“Yaani sasa Danicho sisi ni mapro tutacheza kifua tupu tumeachana na vest, (we’re now pros Ikhoni we will fight bare-chested we’ll not wear vests again) Napunyi would keep on saying that severally obviously very happy they have achieved their goal. It is the dream of most ambitious boxers to turn pro and win a world title.
Our chitchat revolved around their trip to Japan, world champions then in pro at featherweight and lightweight. We also talked about their past participation in some of the international tournaments especially the historic victory in early 1981 in Bangkok, Thailand, where with only five boxers Kenya won the prestigious King’s Cup tournament. Ikhoni, Napunyi and Kamau “Pipino” Wanyoike won gold medals and bantamweight Hussein Khalili silver with heavyweight James “Demosh” Omondi losing his first fight. I really enjoyed their chat on the Bangkok achievement.
Ikhoni, boxing in his second King’s Cup having won silver in 1980, outpointed South Korea’s Lee Hyun Joo whom he gave little room to breathe subjecting him to a non-stop barrage of two-fisted flurries at Hua Mark Indoor Stadium. Over 200 boxers from 23 countries took part in the annual tournament.
Napunyi was in the best form of his boxing career outpunching South Korea’s Kim Ki Tack at featherweight in the most exciting bout of the night. Kim’s face was a mask of blood after the intensive three-rounder in which he received two standing counts in the first and second rounds. Napunyi and his opponent received shields engraved with the words: The Most Exciting Bout.
Wanyoike outpointed Thailand’s Charlee Mauleen to win his second consecutive gold medal in the King’s Cup, while Khalili lost to South Korea’s Ji-Won in the finals, a decision that surprised some fans who felt he was the rightful winner.
Demosh had his heavyweight bout stopped in round three because of a cut above his left eye following a head-on collision against Soviet Union’s Dolgun Vladimir. The Kenyan was ahead on points but by then the rules had not been revised. If that happened today, Omondi would have won on points because it was a head-on collision but if the cut was through clean punches the Russian would win on referee stopped contest (injury) irrespective of whether Omondi was leading on points.
Isaiah Ikhoni-far left wins gold in the 1980 Golden Cup in Nairobi. The Golden Cup, funded by the US, was for countries which had boycotted the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
Eva finally served us with a “mountain of ugali”, a staple dish in Kenya and East Africa made from maize flour. It was accompanied by nicely cooked and appetising beef stew. As if he was in the ring, Ikhoni opened war on the ugali attacking it from all angles. He loved eating well and did not like people talking while eating.
Back to our lively chitchat on past international tournaments involving Ikhoni and Napunyi as we sipped our drinks digesting Eva’s solid ugali. The drinks were slowly taking shape now, and as we say in Nairobi kanashiiiiiiiiika!
Ikhoni took us to Manila, recalling how Napunyi frantically tried to make his way to the airport but missed the flight to, Philippines, for President Marcos Cup tournament. Ikhoni was really keen to know what exactly happened. He was the only gold medallist in Manila while Pipino and Ali “Ojukwu” Athumani won silver medals and a bronze by Aloice “Lesles” Muiruri.
“Ppu (as his comrades referred to Napunyi) ungekua Manila hungekosa gold (If you were in Manila you’d have won a gold medal),” Ikhoni said as we analysed the tournament and how he fought with an injured left eardrum. Ikhoni really believed in Napunyi and admired his textbook boxing.
We laughed heartily recalling their duel at Ruaraka’s Tusker Village Hall in November, 1980, when Breweries clashed with Prisons during the Breweries Sports Festival.
Ikhoni and Napunyi displayed one of the best fights witnessed on Kenyan soil. It was a thrilling action-packed, toe-to-toe exchange and clinch-free show that left fans asking for more after the third round. Ikhoni won on points avenging the 1979 defeat by Napunyi at bantamweight in Kitale where the bottlers met Prisons in a friendly match. At Ruaraka they fought in the featherweight division.
As dusk approached, Napunyi bid farewell to his family with Ikhoni thanking Eva for the large portion of ugali and beef stew. We then left for the city centre our destination being 680 Hotel. That’s where they connected with their Kenyan contact in Japan, Ephraim Nthambiri who travelled with them to Tokyo. He promised to keep me posted on their progress as we parted company with the champion boxers. True to his word he fed me with their progress and photos on arrival in Tokyo where they were given Japanese names.
Ikhoni was named Yonekura and Napunyi Yushin. Soon they set the Japanese pro boxing scene ablaze with their scintillating performances, both winning their first four fights with Ikhoni’s victories coming via KO’s.
Making his debut on September 1, 1981, Ikhoni KO’d Kaneatsu Yamamoto in the first round of a scheduled six rounder, while on the same card Napunyi outpointed Fusao Imai on points. Moreover, he proceeded to win the Japanese featherweight title with a 10-round points victory over the dreaded Spider Nemoto in his fourth fight but relinquished the title to Nemoto in the return match after which Napunyi returned to Nairobi and decided to fight from Kenya.
With Napunyi back home, Ikhoni was now on his own carrying Kenya’s flag in Japan. Having won his first four fights via KO’s, Ikhoni suffered his first loss to Hikaru Tomonari on June 1, 1982.
After his first defeat, Ikhoni, who also clinched the Japanese super-featherweight title, won the next two fights against Hiroshi Osumi whom he KO’d in round one and an 8th round TKO win over Yasuhide Takahashi.
Ikhoni’s fight against Osumi was an explosive encounter. The Kenyan boxer was then 4-1, 4 KOs and Osumi 4-4-1, 4 KOs. Over to asianboxing.info for more details on Ikhoni’s fight with Osumi.
“By his third bout Ikhoni was fighting in 10 rounds, and raced out to 4-0 (4) in just over 6 months as a professional. He was then beaten by Hikaru Tomonari and the loss seemed like a real setback for him. To rebuild his confidence he went in with the limited Hiroshi Osumi.
“Sporting a 4-4-1 record, Osumi wasn’t a particularly good boxer, but he was a solid fighter, with fight changing power. He was crude, but if, and when he landed he could really mess people up. Despite his four losses it’s worth noting that three of those had come to Cheyenna Yamamoto, a future Japanese national champion and his draw had come to Masaharu Owada, another future Japanese champion. He had only been stopped once in his four losses coming into this, and that was against Cheyenne Yamamoto, in six rounds in their third bout, and he went in against Ikhoni with the intention of upsetting the talented Kenyan.
“From the very first seconds Osumi was pressing forward whilst Ikhoni was looking to box and move. Within 30 seconds we saw the first knockdown and it was a big one as a huge overhand right from Osumi dropped Ikhoni. Ikhoni got to his feet quickly but the Kenyan seemed to be in all sorts of trouble when Osumi waded in and the referee gave Ikhoni a standing count.
“The bout could have been stopped after the knockdown, it could have been stopped when the referee decided to give Ikhoni a standing count. It could also have been stopped soon afterwards as Osumi started to ragdoll Ikhoni around the ring as he pursued his man. Ikhoni held, spoiled, tried to clear his head, slipped and ducked and did all he could to try and see out the aggressive charge of Osumi. He was then hurt again and decided his best plan was to fight fire with fire.
“After a huge flurry from Ikhoni we had the third knockdown of the fight, with Osumi hitting the canvas. He tried to get to his feet, and he tried to continue, but he couldn’t and he ended up being counted out after just over 2 minutes of the first round.”
What was amply evident in Ikhoni’s fight with Osumi was his resilience, persistence and absorbing punishment without flinching. That’s how he won the fight via a KO.
Ikhoni then suffered his second defeat at the hands of Japan’s Yoshitsu Asato on May 23, 1983 but he avenged the defeat the following year with a 10-round points win, and beat Asato for the second time in September 25, 1984 in their third fight with another 10-round points victory. Ikhoni’s last fight before he quit pro boxing was in October 22, 1985, knocking out Koki Higashi in the fifth round. He defended the Japanese super featherweight title five times.
WHY IKHONI QUIT PRO BOXING PREMATURELY IN 1985
Again over to asianboxing.info on Ikhoni’s stepping out of the ring.
“In 1985 the hugely popular Hidekazu Akai was forced to retire due to a bleed on the brain. Following Akai’s injury, boxers in Japan were required to undergo CT scans, and a number of those scanned showed irregularities including Ikhoni who was forced to retire from boxing in Japan as a result.
“He originally wanted to fight on but was talked out of it by the chairman of the Yonekura Gym, who explained to the disappointed Kenyan boxer that life was more important than fighting. Following his retirement Ikhoni worked as a trainer at the Yonekura Gym which eventually closed in 2017.
“At the time of his retirement Ikhoni was world ranked and seemed on the verge of a world title fight. He had climbed into the rankings on the back of eight straight wins, including five defenses of the Japanese Super Featherweight title. Those five challenges saw him tying second, at the time, for the most defenses of the belt.”
Ikhoni (14-2-0, 10 KOs)decided to return to Kenya in 1987, becoming very active at the Kenya Professional Boxing Commission as a referee and judge. He was also the secretary-general of the Kenya Boxers Welfare organisation.
One day he opened up to me on why he decided to quit pro boxing against his wishes as was reported by asianboxing.info.
“A brain scan showed I had a blood clot so I couldn’t risk my life to continue fighting, it was very painful for me to stop boxing unexpectedly,” he told me, pointing out the importance of regular brain scanning for pro boxers in Kenya.
“Brain scanning for pro boxers is a must if we’re to avoid boxers losing their lives due to negligence.”
A few months to his sudden death, we had agreed to meet so that he can talk at length on the issue of CT scan and what needs to be done to avoid a disaster in Kenya’s pro boxing.
Unfortunately, we never had the big interview. His demise came as a stabbing shock in the back to me. When legendary boxer Steve Muchoki called to inform me Ikhoni was no more, I felt down trodden and nostalgic. The former champion died with very important information that he was ready to share with me.
Available information on internet says a CT scan, also known as a CAT scan or computed tomography scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed, cross-sectional images of the body. These images, often called “slices,” provide a more detailed view than traditional X-rays and can help doctors diagnose injuries and diseases, plan treatments, and monitor the effectiveness of therapies.
Here’s a more detailed explanation and how it works:
A CT scanner rotates around the patient, taking multiple X-ray images from different angles. These images are then processed by a computer to create cross-sectional views of the body, similar to slices of bread.
What it shows:
CT scans can visualize bones, muscles, organs, blood vessels, and other tissues in great detail. This allows doctors to identify fractures, tumors, internal bleeding, blood clots, and other abnormalities.
Contrast agents:
Sometimes, a contrast agent (dye) is injected or swallowed to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels in the images.
The main obstacle to CT scans in Kenya and Africa as a whole is the huge amount involved to seek the services of a neurosurgeon. Therefore, when it comes to the issue of boxers’ health in Africa’s pro boxing, it’s every man for himself and God for us all. Boxing leaders know very well the side effects of pro boxing health wise but ignore this fact opting to let nature take its course.
WHAT TYPE OF A BOXER WAS IKHONI?
Uganda’s Cuban Businge fought the late Kenyan boxer four times, losing thrice and winning once.
He shares his insight on Ikhoni’s approach in the ring: “Ikhoni was an aggressive boxer-fighter with strong punches in either hand.
He was gifted with seemingly inexhaustable stamina and ability to dish out punishment and absorb strong punches, a valuable asset which he utilized well in his relentless attacks.
The only way to counter his swarming style of boxing was to adopt a circling and side-to-side quick counter-punching technique.
His display of sportsmanship to his opponents after contests is one of the legacies which he has left behind for others to emulate.
May his soul be granted a peaceful rest.”
One of Kenya’s most successful and longest-serving international boxers, Patrick “Mont” Waweru, was the captain of the national team when Ikhoni represented Kenya. He describes Ikhoni as a very daring boxer.
“Ikhoni was a courageous boxer not a coward,” says Waweru, adding: “I have seen several boxers’ eyes change to cowardice nearer the competition but they do take part of course. Ikhoni was a dare-devil. He feared nobody and punched hard with either fist. He knew when to fight and when to box. I liked his sparring.”
Three-time King’s Cup champion Kamau “Pipino” Wanyoike says Ikhoni was an asset in the national team, a boxer who radiated confidence in others in the team.
“Ikhoni was naturally a good boxer gifted with a lot of stamina. At first he used to rush but when he joined the national team we gave him feedback and changed his approach. He was a fast learner and always ready to be corrected,” says Wanyoike.
Ikhoni’s nephew Paul Mukhwaya says Ikhoni was a fighting machine and had a variety of punches. They started boxing together in 1975 at Nakuru Amateur Boxing Club under coach Peter Morris. By then, recalls Mukhwaya, Ikhoni was a form one student at Town High School after completing his primary education at Flamingo Primary School in 1974.
“Ikhoni was a very good boxer. He beat all the big names in Kenya as a light-flyweight,” Mukhwaya told boxersworld.co.ke in an interview.
“Ikhoni! That man was bad news, boxers feared him because his punches were like dynamite. He hit his opponents ruthlessly and was also a dangerous body puncher, a tactic he learnt from former international George Findo.”
Mukhwaya says before Ikhoni joined Breweries, there was friction between the coach of Nakuru ABC Peter Morris and Breweries’ coach Charles Anjimbi who was also the national team coach.
“Breweries wanted to poach him but Morris didn’t want to lose Ikhoni,” recalls Mukhwaya, further explaining how Anjimbi snatched Ikhoni from Nakuru ABC to travel with him to Kampala.
“In 1977 Anjimbi convinced Ikhoni to represent Breweries against Kampala City Council in Kampala as a flyweight. He lost to Businge (Cuban) and on return to Kenya he decided to quit school in form three to join Breweries, boxing was in his blood. Morris was so mad with Anjimbi but there was nothing he could do. My brother had decided Breweries was the place to be.”
A long-time friend of Ikhoni in Nakuru often referred now as NaxVegas, John Githanga, praised Ikhoni’s friendly nature, and always calm even in the face of adversity.
Says Githanga: “We were together with Ikhoni at Flamingo Primary, and had our fun as boy scouts. As a boxer he displayed a lot of tact, ferocity and endurance.”
IKHONI WAS THE EIGHTH-BORN IN A FAMILY OF NINE CHILDREN
Isaiah Ikhoni was born in October 17, 1959, to Josephat Akhaule and Eliseba Minaira from Estsongolo village, East Bunyore in Vihiga County. Both parents are deceased.
Ikhoni was the eighth-born in a family of nine children, five boys and four girls.
The nine children in order of birth:
1) Hellen Mukusa
2) Grace Khaombi
3) George Otieno
4) Peter Koi
5) Hezron Anzoga
6) Rasoha Khabere
7) James Ayodi
8) Isaiah Ikhoni
9) Beatrice Akhaule
Of the nine children, only three are alive now: George Otieno, James Ayodi and Beatrice Akhaule.
In an interview with Ayodi, he says the late Ikhoni was a quiet person madly in love with boxing.
“He was down to earth, even after turning professional he never changed, he maintained close contact with his friends most of whom were boxers,” says Ayodi.
Ikhoni married his deskmate at Town High School, Beatrice. The couple have two children, the first-born Emmy and Brian Ikhoni.
Emmy was a staunch supporter of his dad in the ring. She shares her views on her father’s involvement with boxing.
“I respected dad a lot, It wasn’t an easy path to choose to make a living through boxing, it’s a matter of life death but that was him very brave man,” says Emmy affectionately with a deserved sense of pride.
“When I first watched his game I almost fainted, I yelled daaad punch him!
“Mom is a rock, she’s not easily shaken but she never went to watch his live matches.”
We in the boxing fraternity say goodbye to one of Kenya’s great boxers who inspired many youngsters take up the sport in Nakuru.
Isaiah Ikhoni you have left an indelible mark in Kenya’s boxing history with your incredible and eye-popping achievements in the squared circle. Fare Thee Well Danicho.
Manny Pacquiao turns back clock but settles for draw with Mario Barrios
By the time the final bell rang, Manny Pacquiao had done everything but win the fight. He out-threw, out-landed and out-hustled a champion 16 years his junior for long stretches on Saturday night in Las Vegas, but the scorecards told a different story.
Pacquiao’s spirited return to the ring after a four-year layoff ended in a majority draw against Mario Barrios when the WBC welterweight titleholder won the final three rounds on all three scorecards. One ringside judge handed down a 115–113 verdict for Barrios, while the other two had it 114–114, allowing the 30-year-old Texan to retain his belt by the narrowest of margins. (The Guardian scored it 115-113 for Pacquiao.)
“I thought I won the fight,” Pacquiao said afterward. “It was a close fight. My opponent was very tough. It was a wonderful fight.”
The result was met with lusty boos from a pro-Pacquiao crowd of 13,107 inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena, which had spent much of the evening roaring their support for the 46-year-old from the Philippines. And for much of the bout, it looked like they were about to witness boxing’s only eight-division world champion make history yet again.
Mario Barrios, left, fights Manny Pacquiao on Saturday in Las Vegas. Photograph: John Locher/AP
From the opening round Pacquiao fought with surprising urgency, using angles and volume punching and his signature hand speed to offset Barrios’ height, youth and four-inch reach advantage. He won the first frame behind a flurry of jabs and straight lefts, sparking loud cheers with every landed punch.
Though Barrios began to find a home for his jab and counter right hands in the second, Pacquiao resumed control in the third with a sharper rhythm and faster hands, dictating the pace of the action. He buzzed Barrios in the sixth with a snapping left hand, then again moments later with another lead shot that caught the champion square. “His stamina, he could still crack,” Barrios said. “He’s still strong as hell. His timing, his rhythm, everything. He was still a very awkward fighter to try to figure out.”
Pacquiao’s performance, particularly in rounds six through nine, had the feeling of a time warp. He zipped in and out of range with fluid footwork and mixed in combination like a man half his age. By the end of the 10th, Pacquiao appeared to be well ahead on the scorecards. Even Barrios seemed to acknowledge he had to dig deep to close the gap. “Not necessarily that it was getting away from me,” Barrios said. “I just knew I had to try to step it up to really solidify a win.”
To his credit, Barrios did just that. He clearly won the 11th, landing his best combination of the night and forcing Pacquiao into a rare sequence of retreat. In the 12th, he kept the tempo high, trading shots and finishing strong – just enough to sweep the final three rounds on all three official cards and retain the WBC’s version of the title at 147lb. “I thought I still pulled it out,” Barrios said. “But I still tip my hat to Manny. It was an absolute honor to share the ring with him, somebody with so much experience who has accomplished so much in this sport. We left everything in the ring. Nothing but love and respect.”
The fight marked Pacquiao’s first since his unanimous-decision loss to Yordenis Ugás in 2021. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame last month, and few expected him to compete again at this level, much less push a reigning titleholder to the brink. “I’m more experienced,” Pacquiao said. “I’m a more tactical fighter than before. I’m not as careless as I was when I was young. Now I’m more careful.”
Mario Barrios, right, lands a shot to Manny Pacquiao’s body on Saturday night. Photograph: Harry How/Getty Images
That maturity showed in his measured footwork, selective bursts and veteran nous, including moments where he appeared to be refereeing the fight himself. But even Pacquiao admitted his comeback camp had been rushed. “I only had two months training,” he said. “What I need to do is continue my training. In a championship fight like this, I should train four months, [or at least] three months and a half. But because of the election in the Philippines, I started late. But it’s OK. I love the Filipino people, and I love to give honor to my country.”
Pacquiao, whose professional record now stands at 62–9–3 with 39 knockouts, said he would “absolutely” consider fighting again and made it clear he wants a rematch. “Yes, of course,” he said. “That’s the only legacy that I can leave behind. To give inspiration to the Filipino people and to be proud wherever you are.”
Barrios, whose ledger moves to 29–2–2 after a second straight draw, seemed open to the idea. “Absolutely. This was huge for boxing,” he said. “What me and him were able to bring here today, I would love to do it again.”
Four decades on from his professional debut, Pacquiao once again proved that age is just a number and that greatness, even in a draw, still carries the power to inspire. “It’s an inspiration to old boxers,” Pacquiao said. “If you have discipline and hard work, you can still fight. I’m so thankful to God, because without God, Manny Pacquiao is not here. God is the source of all the strength and good health that I have right now.”
Putting together a list of the greatest boxers of all time is no easy task. With the sport having been blessed with so much talent across generations, it’s notoriously tough to pin down a definitive top 20, especially given the need to compare fighters by their overall records, achievements in the boxing, and the level of opposition they faced.
That’s where ChatGPT comes in. Cutting through the numbers as well as any personal biases, the AI software was asked to compile a ranking of the 20 best boxers ever to grace the squared circle.
The final results are intriguing, with a whole range of legends making the cut. Below is a look at the full rankings.
20 greatest boxers of all time ranked by AI (20-11)
20.
Tony Canzoneri
137-24-10 (44 KOs)
19.
Marvin Hagler
62-3-2 (52 KOs)
18.
Lennox Lewis
41-2-1 (32 KOs)
17.
Roy Jones Jr.
66-10 (47 KOs)
16.
Evander Holyfield
44-10-2 (29 KOs)
15.
Bernard Hopkins
55-8-2 (32 KOs)
14.
Rocky Marciano
49-0 (43 KOs)
13.
Julio Cesar Chavez
107-6-2 (86 KOs)
12.
Archie Moore
186-23-10 (132 KOs)
11
Pernell Whitaker
40-4-1 (17 KOs)
10
Mike Tyson
Professional record: 50-7 (44 KOs)
Mike Tyson
The top 10 kicks off with one of the most recognisable names in the history of the sport. Tyson built his legendary status after tearing his way through the heavyweight ranks as a youngster. ‘Iron Mike’ won his fight 19 contests by stoppage and would become the youngest heavyweight champion in history at just 20 years old, when he captured the WBC title in 1986 by demolishing Trevor Berbick in two rounds. The New York-born slugger would have his fair share of setbacks both in and out of the ring – as evidenced by his seven professional defeats. However, his star power has remained strong over the years – and he set box office records when sensationally coming out of retirement to face Jake Paul in a controversial comeback bout in November 2024. Granted, Tyson was a shadow of his former self, but simply by getting back into the ring, he became an inspiration to a whole new generation of fans.
9
Oleksandr Usyk
Professional record: 24-0 (15 KOs)
Oleksandr Usyk
One of the most technically brilliant fighters ever to step between the ropes, Usyk has a genuine claim to be considered one of the very best heavyweight fighters in history. His success in the glamour division of the sport is all the more surprising given that he has only fought in the weight class on eight occasions. After making the move up from cruiserweight – where he first achieved undisputed world championship status – the Ukrainian made light work of some of the biggest names on the heavyweight scene. Now in his second reign as undisputed heavyweight champion after defeating Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, Usyk has a resume packed with notable victories. The 38-year-old has beaten the likes of Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua twice – and is still hungry to continue his legendary career even after securing undisputed glory for a third time.
Oleksandr Usyk
Related
Oleksandr Usyk Beats Daniel Dubois to Become Undisputed Heavyweight Champion
8
Sugar Ray Leonard
Professional record: 36-3-1 (25 KOs)
Sugar Ray Leonard Smiling
Having won world titles in a staggering five different weight classes – from welterweight to light heavyweight – Leonard is one of the most successful fighters of all time. Not only was he a technical master, but his charismatic showmanship also made him a hit at the box office. ‘Sugar Ray’ mixed it with the very best of his era and more often than not came out on top. His glittering resume is highlighted by wins over fellow legends such as Thomas Hearns, Marvin Hagler and Roberto Duran. Although he has three losses on his professional record, two of these came when Leonard attempted ill-advised comebacks when well past his prime. At his peak, he was truly brilliant.
7
Roberto Duran
Professional record: 103-16 (70 KOs)
Roberto Duran
Duran’s toughness was exemplified by the fact that he was known as ‘Hands of Stone’. The Panamanian hero was a seriously ferocious puncher with remarkable longevity in the sport. Although he fought into his fifties, Duran was at his best as a lightweight, where he reigned as WBA world champion from 1972 until 1979. To his credit, though, he would also go on to win world championships in three additional weight classes. One of his most famous triumphs came when he defeated Sugar Ray Leonard to win the WBC welterweight crown in June 1980.
6
Henry Armstrong
Professional record: 151-21-9 (101 KOs)
Henry Armstrong
As the only boxer ever to hold world titles in three weight classes simultaneously (featherweight, lightweight, welterweight), Armstrong richly deserves his spots in the upper reaches of these rankings. Nicknamed ‘Homicide Hank’, he would frequently overwhelm his opponents with his high-volume punch output and relentless aggression. Armstrong moved seamlessly between the weight classes in which he fought, notching up an incredible 101 stoppages in his professional career – a number that would never be attainable in the modern era. His contributions to the sport were acknowledged when he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame as part of its inaugural class in 1990.
5
Manny Pacquiao
Professional record: 62-8-3 (39 KOs)
Manny Pacquiao entering the ring
The only boxer to win world titles in eight weight classes (from flyweight to super welterweight), Pacquiao has a strong case to be considered the most versatile fighter in boxing history. At his peak, he was renowned for his blistering speed, an attribute that helped him knock out ring legends such as Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto and Juan Manuel Marquez. A cultural icon in his native Philippines, ‘Pac Man’ simply loves to fight – as evidenced by his recent return to the ring at the age of 46 to take on reigning welterweight champion, Oscar Barrios. Given his age, most wrote Pacquiao off before the first bell had even rung. However, in a shock turn of events, Manny rolled back the years and pushed his younger foe the full 12-round distance. Unfortunately for his legions of fans, Pacquiao was denied the victory as the fight was ruled to be a majority draw. The result, though, didn’t take away from Manny’s exceptional performance.
4
Joe Louis
Professional record: 66-3 (52 KOs)
Joe Louis Poses
Owner of the longest world title reign in heavyweight history, Louis was champion for a staggering 12 years between 1937 and 1949. The ‘Brown Bomber’ was a devastating finisher as his record of 52 stoppage victories proves. His speed and footwork, combined with a solid jab and considerable punching power, made him a threat to anyone that shared the ring with him. As a black world champion in an era of segregation, Louis was also celebrated as a cultural icon and a symbol of hope for millions. Louis refused to back down from any challenge, happily taking on all comers for his gold.
3
Floyd Mayweather
Professional record: 50-0 (27 KOs)
Floyd Mayweather
A five-division world champion, Mayweather is one of just a handful of names in these rankings never to have tasted defeats in their professional career. He faced almost every major star of his era (although often attracted criticism for not fighting certain opposition while they were in their prime). A genuine defensive master, Floyd was incredibly tough to hit cleanly – a quality that helped him retire from the sport with a perfect 50-0 record. ‘Money’ Mayweather is also the biggest box-office attraction in boxing history, having been a part of some of the most lucrative pay-per-view events ever staged. While Floyd brought the curtain down on his professional career following his August 2017 victory over Conor McGregor, he continues to boost his substantial bank balance by participating in the occasional exhibition contest – so long as he receives the right financial offer to do so.
2
Sugar Ray Robinson
Professional record: 174-19-6 (109 KOs)
Sugar Ray Robinson
Robinson was a true pioneer of the term of pound-for-pound. He won both welterweight and middleweight world titles during a period where hopping between divisions was far less common than it is today. In sharing its rankings, ChatGPT referred to Sugar Ray as being “one of the most complete fighters ever”. His 199-fight career saw him dominate the sport for a period of 25 years. Robinson redefined the sport with his slick footwork, menacing jab and breathtaking power, blazing a trail for those who came after him.
1
Muhammad Ali
Professional record: 56–5 (37 KOs)
Ali had such a substantial impact on the sport that fans around the world affectionately refer to him as ‘The Greatest’ – and ChatGPT agrees entirely. While Ali was a wizard inside the ring – winning the world heavyweight championship on three occasions – he truly cemented his place in sports history by dazzling audiences with his charm, wit and charisma on the microphone. When it comes to trash talking, few have ever come close to matching the brilliant of the Louisville native. When the talking stopped, though, Ali was able to back up his words inside the squared circle. One half of some of the biggest fights in the history of the sport – including the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ where he knocked out fellow great George Foreman – Ali was simply untouchable at his peak.
FREDDIE ROACH AGREES WITH MANNY PACQUIAO THAT HE WON 8 ROUNDS Vs. MARIO BARRIOS
LAS VEGAS — Manny Pacquiao couldn’t believe what he heard when Jimmy Lennon Jr. announced the scores Saturday night.
The Filipino legend thinks he deserved to win eight of the 12 rounds he and Mario Barrios boxed at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Pacquiao, 46, instead settled for a majority draw in his comeback bout because none of the three judges scored their competitive fight for him.
Max De Luca credited Barrios for a 115-113 win. Tim Cheatham and Steve Weisfeld had it 114-114 apiece.
The controversial result of Pacquiao’s first fight in almost four years initiated talk of an immediate rematch. The age-defying eight-division champion felt he accomplished more than enough, though, in their pay-per-view main event to have shifted his focus toward making his first defense of the WBC welterweight title against another opponent.
“I thought that after the 12 rounds, I won the fight like — my analysis is I won 8-4,” Pacquiao said during his post-fight press conference. “That’s my analysis for the fight. But the thing is I’m surprised with the announcement — it’s [a] draw. So, I did my best in the ring. The fans [were] so happy with my performance. But it’s all right. Pac-Man is back, so I’m still here.”
Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) was on course to beat Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs) through nine rounds.
He was ahead by the same score, 87-84, on the cards of Cheatham and Weisfeld entering the 10th. De Luca had Pacquiao in front by a point, 86-85.
Barrios, 16 years younger and six inches taller than Pacquiao, swept the last three rounds on each judge’s card to retain his title.
The San Antonio, Texas, native fought to a second straight draw. He survived a sixth-round knockdown in his previous bout, which resulted in a split draw with Abel Ramos (28-6-3, 22 KOs) on Nov. 15 in Arlington, Texas.
The unofficial punch stats Saturday indicated that the Pacquiao-Barrios bout was as close as Cheatham, De Luca and Weisfeld scored it.
CompuBox credited Barrios for landing 120 of 658 punches overall, 19 more than Pacquiao (101 of 577). Pacquiao connected with more power punches (81 of 259 to 75 of 235), but Barrios landed more jabs (45 of 423 to 20 of 318).
Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s head trainer, nonetheless agreed with his fighter’s perspective. It was Pacquiao’s first fight since he lost a unanimous decision to Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas in August 2021 at nearby T-Mobile Arena.
“We had a great fight,” Roach said. “Manny fought very well. And he even had a knockdown in there somewhere — they didn’t count it. But I thought he won the fight 8-4. But that’s the way things go and we would like a rematch right away.”
The “knockdown” to which Roach referred occurred approximately 50 seconds into the second round. Referee Thomas Taylor rightfully ruled it a slip because Barrios appeared to trip without getting hit by a punch.
Perfect jab...Daniel Wanyonyi (left) taking advantage of his reach to keep Daniel Okoth (right) at bay. Wanyonyi captured Kenya's national super middleweight title with a second round TKO victory.
ROAR IN THE RING 2 IGNITES NAIROBI WITH EXPLOSIVE BOUTS ▪️ Daniel Wanyonyi captures national super middleweight title
What a thrilling marathon fight night it was as the roar returned to Nairobi on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Nairobi’s packed Charter Hall.
The cheering was deafening. Roar in the Ring II delivered a night of pure boxing brilliance that thrilled fans, spotlighted raw talent, and made history with the inclusion of para-boxing (wheelchair boxing) for the first time in Kenya.
From the first bell in the packed card, the atmosphere was electric. Organised by MELK Promotions, the event featured 14 professional bouts and two para-boxing matches, bringing together fighters from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Each bout was a showcase of grit, resilience, and unrelenting spirit—proving once again that East Africa is quickly emerging as a force in the global pro boxing scene.
The winner is Wanyonyi!!
The main event of the night saw crowd favourite Daniel Wanyonyi put on a commanding performance against Daniel Okoth, stopping him with a powerful TKO in the second round at 2 minutes and 57 seconds to win the national super middleweight title. Wanyonyi’s victory wasn’t just about winning—it was a statement of dominance and a reminder of his place at the top of Kenya’s boxing ranks.
Another standout was Uganda’s middleweight James Ssebalumu who closed out a grueling contest with Tanzania’s Kelvin Masanja by securing a TKO in the eighth round, capping off one of the evening’s most dramatic and technically impressive fights.
But perhaps the most groundbreaking moments came from the para-boxing bouts. In a first-of-its-kind Kenyan event, George Atito faced off against Augustus Kamau, with Kamau taking the win on unanimous points. In the second para bout, Emmanuel Agavihi and Evans Odhiambo fought to a thrilling draw, highlighting not just their skill and determination, but also the growing momentum behind inclusive sports in the region.
The night was full of highlights:
Uganda’s Africa Boxing Union bantamweight champion Catherine Nanziri TKO’d Tanzania’s Halima Bandola in round 2. The Tanzanian boxer said she was surprised Nanziri was not cautioned for a rabbit punch even when she had turned her back signalling she could not continue fighting following a left wrist injury.
Boneface Nzangi, Fredrick Omondi, Stanley Museve, Dennis Ashley, Nicholine Achieng, Owen Kibira (Uganda), Stanley Mugerwa (Uganda), and Dennis Okoth all walked away with decisive wins.
Collins Nyakwaka TKO’d David Ochieng in the second round of the light-heavyweight bout, while Kenya’s Nick Mwangi aka Makaveli and Tanzania’s Abdulrazak Mwenga battled to an exciting draw in the super lightweight division. The Tanzanian boxer, fighting out of his country for the first time, said he was robbed of victory, sentiments echoed by some fans.
Kenya’s Nick Mwangi (left) connects a clean body shot against Tanzania’s Abdulrazak Mwenge. This super lightweight bout ended in a controversial draw with the Tanzanian boxer and a section of the crowd claiming the draw was unfair result and that Mwenge deserved to win.
Throughout the night, fans roared, cheered, and sang as Charter Hall vibrated with every punch thrown and every decision announced. Coaches urged their fighters on from the corners, while the referees ensured fair, clean contests. The audience was treated not just to boxing, but to a full-scale sporting experience that fused entertainment, athleticism, and inclusivity not to mention the tantalising show from the elegant ring card beauties.
After the final bell, MELK Promotions Director Ezekiel Mwabili thanked fans, boxers, coaches, and all supporting partners for making the event a resounding success.
“Tonight, we witnessed the very best of what boxing can be,” he said.
“Roar in the Ring II was more than an event—it was a declaration that East African boxing is here, and it’s only getting bigger. The introduction of para-boxing is a milestone for our sport and reflects our belief that the ring belongs to everyone.”
Mwabili confirmed the next edition of Roar in the Ring returns in October 2025 on a date to be announced soon. With expectations already rising, fans can only guess what the next chapter will bring—but one thing is certain: MELK Promotions is building a boxing legacy, one punch at a time.
CAMEROON, NIGERIA AND NAMIBIA BOXERS TO FEATURE IN IBA.PRO 8 CARD ON JULY 22
Tajikistan’s Bakhodur Usmonov will face Christopher Mouafo on 22 July in Dushanbe as IBA.Pro 8 rolls into town. Usmonov, a 2019 Asian Champion and 2023 World Championships bronze medalist, will be out to impress as the Tajikistan headline attraction. The 27-year-old is currently 10-0 (5 KOs), while Swiss-based Cameroonian Mouafo sports an 11-1 (7 KOs) record.
Last seen victorious in Rwanda, Mouafo arrives in this 10-rounder off the back of a six-fight winning streak. ‘Ruthless’ has never campaigned in the IBA.Pro ranks until now and highly-rated Tajikistan talent Usmonov will be keen to inflict a second loss on the visitor.
In the co-main event, Vadim Musaev and Jose Miguel Borrego meet for the IBA Pro Intercontinental title at 67kg. Russia’s Musaev was an esteemed amateur who amassed an impressive 12-0 (8 KOs) pro record.
Mexican Borrego, 22-4 (18 KOs), brings a wealth of experience to the table, having boxed future Conor Benn opponent Peter Dobson in 2022. Borrego won rounds against that 14-0 opponent. All of his losses have been close-run affairs.
Highly rated Musaev was last seen knocking out Novruz Huseynov in the first round in Türkiye. Borrego is having his fifth fight under the IBA.Pro banner, with mixed results. Musaev will be hoping to extend that form with a win on 22 July.
Elsewhere on the card, 2024 Olympic bronze medalist Davlat Boltaev of Tajikistan faces unbeaten Nigerian Solomon Adebayo in an eight-round bout for the IBA Pro Intercontinental title. Adebayo enters this cruiserweight contest with a formidable 13 knockouts from 14 wins.
Vladimir Mironchikov (5-0) representing Serbia embarks on an eight-rounder with former world title challenger Walter Kautondokwa (19-2) representing Namibia.
At 79.2kg, Serbia’s Artem Ageev tackles Adulaziz Abdupattaev of Uzbekistan over four rounds. In a 57.2kg six-rounder, Akmal Ubaidov meets Azerbaijan’s Tayfur Aliyev.
The IBA.Pro 8 tournament is being held as part of the Central Asian International Economic Forum in association with the esteemed Tajikistan Boxing Federation. Supported by IBA President Umar Kremlev and the International Boxing Association, this 22 July event will be broadcasted live.
The latest card comes hot on the heels of the successful IBA.Pro 7 event, where Jazza Dickens stunned Albert Batyrgaziev in the main event, with the likes of Tyson Fury and Terence Crawford watching on from ringside.
Courtesy; Elena Sobol, Head of Communications and PR, International Boxing Association: elena.sobol@iba.sport
Man Man Ngori Robert Okaka (left) of KDF still rules the light-heavyweight division in Kenya.
MAN MAN NGORI OKAKA BEATS JAKABABA FOR THE THIRD TIME
▪️ Winners in the final earn 12k and losers 11,500 courtesy of Mombasa Cement and Alliance Francaise
Africa light-heavyweight bronze medallist Robert Okaka aka Man Man Ngori scored his third consecutive victory over Humphrey “Jakababa” Ochieng in the second leg of the Kenya National Boxing League which ended on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Alliance Francaise in Mombasa.
Okaka remained in the driver’s seat for the better part of the three rounds outpunching Jakababa for a deserved 3-0 victory in their light-heavyweight final._Man Man Ngori Robert Okaka (left) of KDF still rules the light-heavyweight division in Kenya_
“I have said it before I’m the best in my weight, I proved it in Mombasa,” Okaka told boxersworld.co.ke.
2nd LEG NATIONAL LEAGUE-FINALS RESULTS
Efforts to get Jakababa’s views were unsuccessful. It’s indeed a painful defeat for the Police boxer losing to the KDF soldier three times consecutively.
All is not lost for Jakababa. He can still redeem himself in the third leg of the league in Molo.
In some of the other highlights, KDF’s Africa Military Games bantamweight champion Dennis Muthama made no secret about his intention to take over the 54kg weight class with a neat points victory over Africa bronze medallist Shaffi Bakari of Police while Mwinyi Kombo failed to roar at home losing the featherweight final to Paul Omondi of Police in the finals.
Dennis Muthama (left) and Shaffi Bakari (right) display sportsmanship spirit after their bantamweight bout in the finals won by Muthama.
Winners in the finals returned home with Sh12,500 and losers 11,500. Mombasa Cement Company gave each finalist Ksh10,000 while Alliance Francaise’s token of appreciation was Sh2000 for winners in the finals and Sh1,500 for the losers. Kudos for inspiring the boxers.
Defending champions KDF, who missed the first leg of the league, won the second leg with 21 points followed by Police 18, Nakuru County 12, Kibra 8, Nairobi County and Prisons tied on the fifth place with 7 points each.
2nd LEG NATIONAL LEAGUE-FINALS RESULTS.
Heading to the third leg of the league, Police remain at the top with 41 points, KDF and Nairobi County are jointly second on 21 points each while Kisumu County and Nakuru County are third each with 12 points.
