Kenya on course for super-heavyweight, flyweight finals at African Boxing Championships

Kenyan boxer Clinton Macharia has secured himself a medal in the African Boxing Championship after a convincing win in the super-heavyweight semi-finals in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Macharia, who is making his debut in the continental games, outclassed Angola's Luvo Jordilson with a unanimous points decision, ensuring he will walk away with at least a silver or gold medal.

Macharia, who began his boxing career in 2019 at Kaloleni Social Hall, used his agility and footwork to overcome his opponent despite his size disadvantage.

His well-timed, rapid combinations were too much for the Angolan, paving the way for Macharia to advance to the final where he will face 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," said Macharia, who appeared calm and confident following his victory.

This is Macharia’s first time representing Kenya in such a major tournament, and his success is a significant milestone for him and the team.

Kenya’s head coach, Musa Benjamin, couldn’t hide his excitement after the rookie’s win.

“I’m happy we have our first boxer in the final. This is a sign of better things to come,” Benjamin remarked, looking ahead to Macharia’s chance to win 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.

“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.

The semi finals begin at 19:00 EAT.