IBA Boxing Championships: Kenyan boxers back in the ring, eye quarters berths

Kenyan boxers will once again be in the ring tonight at the 2025 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in Nis, Serbia, with focus on the Round of 16 bouts. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the pugilists are determined to make their mark on the global stage.

In the lightweight category [60-63kg], Kenya’s Cynthia Mwai will square off with Mexico’s Edith Hernandez in what promises to be an explosive contest. Mwai, who received an automatic progression to this stage after her Round of 32 opponent was ruled out, is eager to showcase her skill and prove her mettle in the ring.

Kenya’s Emily Juma takes on Jedinakova Miroslava of Slovakia in the lightweight [57-60kg] division. Juma, known for her technical prowess and resilience, will be looking to dominate her Slovakian opponent and advance further in the tournament.

In the bantamweight [52-54kg] category, Amina Faki faces a tough challenge against Russia’s Tazabekova Karina. Faki, who has been one of Kenya’s standout boxers, will need to be at her sharpest to overcome the skilled Russian fighter.

Meanwhile, Kenya’s Friza Anyango enters the ring in the welterweight [63-66kg] class against Kubalova Tamara of Slovakia. Anyango’s aggressive fighting style and determination could prove decisive as she aims to book a spot in the quarterfinals.

Meanwhile Kenya’s camp received a boost after Pauline Chege Wandia and Cynthia Mwai Mwihaki secured automatic progression to the Round of 16, keeping Kenya’s hopes alive as they eye podium finishes.

Already captain Liz Andiego has received a bye to the quarter-finals. This is the third time Andiego will appear in the last eight in this global event. She has bright prospects of punching her way to the semi-finals to win Kenya's first ever medal in Women's Boxing Worlds.

However, it wasn’t all good news, as Veronica Mbithe’s campaign ended prematurely after a hard-fought battle against Kazakhstan’s Alua Balkibekova in the light flyweight [48-50kg] category. Despite her valiant effort, Mbithe bowed out by unanimous decision.

With national pride on the line, they will be looking to deliver stellar performances and keep the country's medal hopes alive at the world championships.