Kenyan boxer Clinton Macharia has clinched a medal at the African Boxing Championship following a decisive victory in the super-heavyweight semi-finals held in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Making his debut in the continental games, Macharia outperformed Angola’s Luvo Jordilson with a unanimous points decision, securing at least a silver or gold medal.
Despite facing a size disadvantage, Macharia, who began his boxing journey in 2019 at Kaloleni Social Hall, showcased his agility and footwork to dominate his opponent. His swift and well-timed combinations proved too much for the Angolan boxer, allowing Macharia to advance to the finals where he will compete against Morocco’s Younes Bouhdid.
“The Angolan boxer had been threatening me at the hotel every day, saying he would kill me, but today I showed him what boxing made in Kenya is all about,” Macharia expressed, exuding calm and confidence after his victory. This tournament marks Macharia’s first time representing Kenya at such a significant level, making his success a notable achievement for both him and the team.
Kenya’s head coach, Musa Benjamin, expressed his excitement after the rookie’s win, stating, “I’m happy we have our first boxer in the final. This is a sign of better things to come,” as he looked forward to Macharia’s opportunity to secure Kenya’s first gold in the tournament.
Meanwhile, all eyes now turn to Kenya’s Abednego Kyalo, who is set to compete in the flyweight semi-finals against reigning Mandela African Boxing Cup champion Fabrice Valerie of Mauritius.
Valerie, a rising star in African boxing, enters the match with confidence after a dominant quarterfinal win over Cameroon’s bronze medalist, Mouhaman Issouhou.
Despite Valerie’s reputation, Kyalo is unfazed.
“He doesn’t have any advantage over me unless he has two heads or more hands,” Kyalo joked ahead of the fight, emphasizing his fearless attitude.
“Known for his relentless fighting style, Kyalo is working closely with his coaches to develop a strategy for the crucial match.
The Kenyan boxing camp remains optimistic, as four other boxers have made it to the semifinals, giving the nation a strong chance to collect multiple medals.
With Kyalo’s determination and Macharia already assured of a medal, hopes are high for a successful tournament for Kenya.
Other Kenyan boxers who will take to the ring today in there semi final bouts are Faki Amina Martha against Bisambu Bawo Merveille of Congo, Elizabeth Andiego faces Mwika Marie Joelle of Congo, Aloice Vincent Ochieng will come up against South African Masamba John Paul, Robert Okaka will square it out with Ipinge Gebhard of Namibia, Shaffi Bakari Hassan will be up against Mwale Mwengo of Zambia while Boniface Mogunde has a strong challenger in form of Amroug Zine El Abidine from Morocco.
The semi finals begin at 19:00 EAT.
