Kenyan boxer John Juma has vowed to deliver a knockout victory as he headlines a historic fight night at the Edge Convention Centre on Friday, with the WBA Africa Gold Super Lightweight Title on the line.
Juma will face Tanzania’s Charles Chilala in a high-stakes 10-round bout, topping a stacked 10-fight card under the SportPesa Boxing series, in what is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated boxing events in Nairobi.
“I’m Going for a Knockout”
Speaking during a charged weigh-in, Juma exuded confidence ahead of his first title shot.
“I’m promising my fans that I’m going for a knockout. Someone should tell Chilala that the ring will be so hot for him,” he declared.
But Chilala fired back, warning that he has come to Kenya on a mission to take the belt back to Tanzania.
Five Titles on the Line
The night promises thrills and spills, with five titles up for grabs across multiple weight divisions. Among the standout bouts:
National Lightweight champion Javan Buyu takes on Tanzania’s Athuman Nassoro for the PST Lightweight title
Rael Asubwe faces Leila Yazidu for the women’s PST Super-Featherweight title
Richard Okoth meets David Oluoch in the National Welterweight title clash
Michael Oduor battles Stanley Mukholo for the National Super Welterweight title
Zarika Returns to the Ring
Former WBC champion Fatuma Zarika also makes a highly anticipated return, facing Tanzania’s Flora Machela in an eight-round non-title bout—adding further star power to the event.
Growing Boxing Ambitions
According to of , the event marks a major milestone for Kenyan boxing.
“We are glad to bring the WBA title to Kenya for the first time. The winner will be supported to go for a global title this season.”
Promoter emphasized the broader vision
Fans Expect Fireworks
According to Japheth Akhulia of SportPesa, the event marks a major milestone for Kenyan boxing.
“We are glad to bring the WBA title to Kenya for the first time. The winner will be supported to go for a global title this season.”
Promoter Maurice Odera emphasized the broader vision through the SportPesa Rising Stars initiative, aimed at nurturing young talent across the country.
Meanwhile, Reuben Ndolo, President of the Kenya Professional Boxing Commission, hailed the matchups as a sign that Kenya is fast becoming a regional boxing hub.
Fight Card Highlights (April 3, Nairobi)
- Main Event: John Juma (Kenya) vs Charles Chilala (Tanzania) — WBA Africa Gold Super Lightweight Title (10 rounds)
- Fatuma Zarika (Kenya) vs Flora Machela (Tanzania) — Women’s Super Featherweight (8 rounds)
- Javan Buyu (Kenya) vs Athuman Nassoro (Tanzania) — PST Lightweight Title (10 rounds)
- Rael Asubwe (Kenya) vs Leila Yazidu (Tanzania) — PST Women’s Super-Featherweight Title (10 rounds)
- Richard Okoth (Kenya) vs David Oluoch (Kenya) — National Welterweight Title (10 rounds)
With national pride, regional rivalry, and multiple titles at stake, Nairobi is set for a fight night of high drama, intensity, and defining moments.