Tanzanian boxing fans are set for an action-packed night as experienced fighters Tonny Rashid and Juma Choki prepare to headline the Dar Boxing Derby after successfully completing the official weigh-in and face-off ceremony ahead of their highly anticipated bout.
The weigh-in event, held at Las Vegas Grounds in Mabibo, Dar es Salaam, brought together all participating boxers who confirmed their readiness for the showdown scheduled for tomorrow at the East Africa Logistic and Commercial Centre (EACLC) in Ubungo.
The winner of the main event between Rashid and Choki will take home a Toyota Crown “Mtoa Roho” vehicle, alongside the financial reward agreed upon in their fight contracts.
Speaking after the weigh-in, Rashid said he is fully prepared for the challenge and expects to give fans a memorable performance.
“We are experienced boxers, and tomorrow we will show our quality inside the ring. My previous defeat was a lesson that helped me improve. Choki is a good boxer and I respect him, but I also know my ability. The best fighter will win,” Rashid said.
Choki, meanwhile, expressed confidence in his preparations, saying his focus is on delivering victory and maintaining his reputation in the sport.
“I have prepared well for this fight. What matters now is stepping into the ring and proving myself. I am ready to give my best,” he said.
The derby will also feature another major attraction as Abdallah Pazi, popularly known as Dulla Mbabe, takes on Hussein Itaba in a bout expected to generate excitement among boxing enthusiasts.
Dulla Mbabe said he is determined to make a strong comeback by using his experience and technical skills to overcome his opponent.
“I have prepared well and I will show my technical ability. My target is to finish the fight early and prove myself,” he said.
However, Itaba responded confidently, saying he has no fear of facing Dulla Mbabe and is ready for the challenge.
“I have completed my preparations with my management team. I respect my opponent, but I am coming into the ring to win,” Itaba said.
Peak Time Events Coordinator Bakari Hatibu said preparations for the Dar Boxing Derby have been completed, with organisers aiming to raise the profile of boxing in Tanzania through competitive and professionally organised events.
“Our goal is to increase interest in boxing and create events that attract fans and sponsors. Last year we organised the Denis versus Nkane fight, and this year we are taking another step by bringing bigger competitions. We encourage Tanzanians to come and support these fighters,” Hatibu said.
The event will feature several exciting bouts, including Haidari Mchanjo against Oscar Richard, Debora Mwenda versus Dorothea Muhoza, Hamad Furahisha against John Patrick, and Sara Alex facing Dorisia Mazige.
With experienced fighters, attractive prizes and a strong lineup of matches, the Dar Boxing Derby is expected to provide a major platform for Tanzanian boxers to showcase their skills while helping revive public interest in professional boxing.
