Boxing fans were treated to an explosive Boxing Day spectacle after Tanzanian professional boxer Hassan Mwakinyo sealed a second-round knockout (KO) victory over Nigeria’s Stanley Eribo, reaffirming his status as one of the country’s most exciting fighters.
The bout, staged under the Boxing on Boxing Day event, ended much earlier than expected, denying fans a long contest but delivering a moment of high drama that brought the crowd to its feet.
Speaking after the fight, Mwakinyo shifted focus from his personal triumph to the broader future of sports in Tanzania, calling on the government to invest more in modern and spacious sports infrastructure.
He said improved facilities would allow more citizens to attend events and help unlock the potential of young talents.
“I thank God for the win, but I feel for the fans who could not get in because the venue was too small,” Mwakinyo said.
“With better infrastructure, more Tanzanians would enjoy sports and young talents would get the exposure they deserve.”he added
Mwakinyo credited his victory to discipline in training and respect for the sport, while also thanking his fans and promoter, Selemani Semunyu, for their unwavering support.
He revealed that his original intention was to fight up to seven rounds to give supporters a thrilling contest, but the early knockout ended the bout in the second round.
Looking ahead, Mwakinyo said he plans to take boxing closer to the people, with Mwanza among the regions he hopes to visit, noting that the fight had initially been planned to take place there.
The Boxing Day event featured several other thrilling encounters. Ramadhan Mkwakwate emerged as PST champion after defeating Reagan Pacho of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Hamadi Furahisha won the PST title against Malawi’s Henock Phiri, while Debora Mwenda also claimed a PST belt after beating Malawi’s Mariam Dick.
Elsewhere on the card, Mussa Makuka earned a points victory over Ally Ngwando, while Leila Macho and Hidaya Zahoro fought to a draw.
Beyond the results, the event reflected the growing appetite for boxing among Tanzanians, reinforcing calls for improved sports facilities to ensure fans are not left out and athletes are given the platform to shine.