Boxers ready for battle in Nakuru

Boxing
By Ben Ahenda | May 13, 2026
Kenyan boxer Shaffi Bakari in a past training session. [File, Standard]

Boxers are eager to catch the eyes of national selectors in the first leg of the National Boxing League at Old Town Hall in Nakuru tomorrow.

Kenya Police Humphrey ‘Jakababa’ Ochieng’ hopes to put the disappointments he faced last season behind him in the light heavyweight (81kg) after climbing up the ladder to cruiserweight (86kg). 

“It was tough last season but I’m made major strides during my training that should see me make a major comeback,” he said. 

Ochieng’ had a rough time against reigning national light heavyweight champion Kenya Defence Forces Robert Okaka.

Despite being a greenhorn, Nakuru ABC’s flyweight sensational James Tachia is one of the boxers who is keen to stamp his authority.  Tachia recognises KDF’s Kevin Maina as the main threat. 

“Maina is an experienced hand in the league championships but he can as well be beaten,” he told Standard Sports.  He is banking his performance on the recent triumph in the Inter Clubs Championships between Kenya and Uganda at Madison Square Garden.  He was the only boxer in the Nakuru ABC camp who won his match against the Ugandans. 

“I’m bringing back the experience I got in the Inter Clubs Championships and in the Kenya Open to the league championships,” said Tachia. 

KDF’s national bantamweight champion Dennis Muthama is also hoping for a good show in Nakuru.

“Getting international assignments for the national team is an obligation any boxer cannot wish away. Therefore, the league championships have come handy in readiness for international assignments,” said the KDF boxer. 

Muthama is aware of stiff opposition against 2019 All Africa Games flyweight gold medallist Hassan Shaffi Bakari of Police. 

Share this story
Senegal goalkeeper Mendy retires from international football
Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, 34, announced his international retirement on his social media accounts on Sunday, after eight years and 59 caps with the Lions of Teranga.
Tusker through to next stage as K'Ogalo face Pyramids in Cairo
Tusker booked their place in the second round of the Caf Confederation Cup after edging Sudanese side Al-Ahli Wad Medani 1-0 in the return leg played yesterday at Nyayo Stadium
Oilers, Kabras and KCB storm into Christie Sevens quarters
Menengai Oilers, Kabras Sugar and KCB Rugby Club booked their places in the quarter-finals of the Christie Sevens after winning their opening two matches at RFUEA Grounds yesterday.
Over 250 players to grace Karen Golf tournament
Over 250 players are expected to grace the third edition of Fund Manager's Association (FMA) Charity Golf Tournament set for par 72 Karen Country Club in Nairobi on October 9.
Why Mourinho wants 2030 World Cup final played at the Bernabeu instead of Lisbon
Morocco, Spain and Portugal are co-hosting the 2030 tournament and have already begun competing for the right to stage the final.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS