Following a dramatic showdown in the much-anticipated Dar Boxing Derby held last night, boxers Ibrahimu Class and Nassibu Ramadhani are calling for an immediate rematch after their main event bout ended in a draw.
The evenly matched fight, which thrilled fans at the packed arena, concluded without a winner—leaving both fighters and supporters with a sense of unfinished business.
Both Class and Ramadhani walked away with Tsh 2.5 million each, part of a Tsh 5 million incentive package pledged by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. The prize was initially set aside for the winner of the main card event.
Speaking shortly after the fight, Class expressed his willingness to accept the judges' decision but insisted that a rematch should take place before he engages in any international bouts.
“I respect the decision because the judges have done their job,” Class said. “But I’m requesting the promoters to organise a rematch. I want to face him again before I step onto the international stage.”
Ramadhani, however, was visibly disappointed and more critical of the result. He accused his opponent of benefiting from what he described as a pre-arranged outcome.
“My opponent came into the ring with the result already in his pocket,” Ramadhani claimed. “Class is a good boxer, no doubt, but let’s be real he didn’t win. I’ve never drawn or been beaten twice in any fight here in Bongo. We are absolutely ready for a rematch.”
The call for a rematch is already gaining momentum among boxing fans, who praised the intensity and technical skill displayed during the bout.
The undercard fights also delivered plenty of action. Issa Mpepecha claimed victory on points against Shauri Ramadhani, while Karim Mandonga, known for his flamboyant style, suffered a loss to Shaban Kaoneka.
Elsewhere, Saidi Bwanga knocked out Lorent Japhate, and the match between Denis Nkane and Kibwana Shomari ended in a draw. In the women's division, Sara Alex defeated Stumai Muki.
With both Class and Ramadhani pushing for another face-off, attention now turns to local boxing promoters to see if they will heed the call and deliver the rematch fans are eager to witness.