Fireworks mark Robert Wangila tourney at Jericho Social Hall

Abdiwahab Abdi (left) and Thomas Mwangi during the 15th edition of the Robert Wangila tournament at Jericho in Nairobi on Saturday. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The 15th edition of Robert Wangila Boxing Cup produced scintillating action as fans were treated to 12 bouts, which saw boxers from Nairobi and Mombasa trading punches at Jericho Social Hall.

In the light heavyweight 81kg fight, Eugene Matheka from Bahati Boxing Club battered Olechukwu Okoye with a Technical Knock Out (TKO) after only two rounds.

Matheka, who is trained by Samuel Otieno showed his intention in the early rounds landing heavy punches on his opponent backed up with speed and nimble footwork.

“I knew I was in good form going into the fight. My intention was not to end the fight early but I am glad to be the 2019 Wangila Cup champion,” said Matheka after the bout on Saturday.

Chris Ochanda was the winner of the middle weight 75kg category, after the umpire called on RSC (Referee Stop Contest) after Moses Juma dislocated his shoulder.

In lightweight 64kg bout, John Juma of Nairobi easily won the fight against Mombasa-based Hudson Muhatia.

In the 47kg under 14 years fight, Eric Kigathi of Trans Boxing Club in Umoja estate demolished Christopher Musyoki. Kigathi, a class eight candidate at Grand Star Academy is coached by Mike Mungai.

The action packed event attended by Reuben Ndolo, the newly elected Kenya Professional Boxing Commission (KPBC) chairman, Benson Mutura, the former Makadara MP and the tournament sponsor, saw Benson Kamau being crowned the boxer of the tournament. Kamau defeated Hamza Said of Mombasa in lightweight category. Abdiwahab Abdi was named the most promising boxer.

In the only female fight of the evening, Beatrice Akoth defeated Stacy Ayuma in the light weight 60kg.

Mutura, who has sponsored the event, said: “My aim is to see upcoming boxers showcase their talent. I’m also glad Boxing Association of Kenya has recognised this annual event and have promised to help include it in their calendar in coming years.”

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