Tanzanian boxers capped off the year in emphatic fashion after claiming WBO Africa and PST championship belts during the seventh edition of the Knockout ya Mama boxing tournament, held yesterday at the Posta Grounds in Kijitonyama, Dar es Salaam.
The internationally themed event highlighted the steady rise of boxing in Tanzania, with local fighters delivering disciplined, high-intensity performances that underlined the sport’s growing competitiveness on the continental stage.
In one of the main bouts of the night, Frank Shagembe clinched the WBO Africa title after knocking out Nigeria’s Haruna Osumanu, a victory he attributed to thorough preparation and focus.
“I went into the fight determined to win the championship and the belt. I thank God that my plan worked after my opponent could not withstand my punches,” said Shagembe.
Yusuph Changalawe also emerged victorious, lifting the PST belt through the Knockout ya Mama contest. He described the win as a major boost to his career and a stepping stone to greater ambitions.
“This victory is a big motivation for me. My goals go beyond belts like this, and I believe my team has seen my potential and will give me the opportunity to prepare better so I can achieve my dreams,” Changalawe said.
He added that the success had brought pride and joy to Tanzanians by ending the year on a high note, while pledging to return to training early in preparation for future bouts.
Other winners on the night included Mchanja Yohana, Amiri Matumla, Saidi Hakimu, Iddy Pialalo, Oscar Richard and Asemahle Wellem, while the bout involving Ibrahim Mafia ended in a draw.
The tournament once again reaffirmed Tanzania’s growing profile in professional boxing and its capacity to produce champions capable of competing at the highest levels in Africa.