Tanzania's boxing rivalry will take centre stage on July 24 when Abdallah Pazi, popularly known as Dulla Mbabe, faces Hussein Itaba in a highly anticipated Dar Boxing Derby bout at the East Africa Logistics and Commercial Centre (EACLC) in Ubungo.
The two fighters have intensified the build-up by exchanging bold predictions, each expressing confidence of leaving the ring victorious.
Dulla Mbabe, who trains at Kinyogori Boxing Gym in Ilala, said he has completed his preparations and is determined to restore his standing with a commanding performance against Itaba.
The seasoned boxer said his experience against high-level opponents gives him an advantage and vowed to showcase his technical ability before ending the contest early.
"I have prepared thoroughly. My experience will be the difference, and I believe I can finish the fight in the opening rounds," he said.
Itaba, however, dismissed his opponent's claims, arguing that Dulla Mbabe's era has passed and that the upcoming contest will signal the rise of a new force in Tanzanian boxing.
"This is my moment to prove myself. Dulla should be ready because I am coming to win and settle the debate over who is the better boxer," Itaba said.
Itaba's coach, Ramadhani Uwadi, said his camp had devised a comprehensive game plan to ensure victory, describing the contest as one of the biggest domestic boxing clashes of the year.
Beyond the headline bout, the Dar Boxing Derby will feature several high-profile contests. Juma Choki will take on Tonny Rashid in a fight whose winner will receive a Toyota Crown as the top prize.
The undercard will also see Hamad Furahisha square off against John Patrick, while the women's division features Debora Mwenda against Dorothea Mhoza and Sara Alex facing Dorisia Mazige.
Organisers expect a large turnout as some of Tanzania's leading professional boxers compete in an event that promises both fierce competition and significant rewards.
