KPBC FOCUSED

Ndolo keen to take profession boxing to the next level

Ndolo said they are keen to build up on their past performances, saying their target is to take the discipline to the next level.

In Summary

•Oliver, who has visited Kenya multiple times, praised the commission for its active role in developing boxing.

•“We may not have had a good fight in the recent past but we aim to uplift standards of the game. In comparison to two years ago, we have moved a step ahead and we are in a good place,” —Ndolo 

KPBC chairman Reuben Ndolo flanked by Kenya heavyweight champion Morris Okollo (L), Mauritius promoter Jamil Ruby (R) and heavyweight champion Cedric Oliver.
KPBC chairman Reuben Ndolo flanked by Kenya heavyweight champion Morris Okollo (L), Mauritius promoter Jamil Ruby (R) and heavyweight champion Cedric Oliver.
Image: CHARLENE MALWA

Kenya Professional Boxing Commission (KPBC) chairman Reuben Ndolo is happy with the strides made in the pro-boxing circles.

Ndolo said they are keen to build upon their past performances, saying their target is to take the discipline to the next level.

“We may not have had a good fight in the recent past but we aim to uplift standards of the game. In comparison to two years ago, we have moved a step ahead and we are in a good place,” Ndolo said.

He highlighted the commission’s recent expansion efforts, including partnerships and cross-border growth.

“We are expanding every day and we are proud of our progress. We have a new promoter, Fiyat Hashim from Somaliland and we want to work with them in this region. We are negotiating with Ethiopia,” he stated

Ndolo said plans are underway to extend their influence to other regions. “Things are expanding across East and Central Africa region. We are also putting up a commission in Juba.”

Mauritian boxing promoter Jamil Rudy echoed Ndolo’s sentiments while praising the growth of the sport in Kenya.  “KPBC is a reflection of African countries that are doing well. Kenya has fast-rising talent like Rayton Okwiri, who we are working with closely,” Oliver said. He also cited  Maurice Maina as the other upcoming talent.

“I’m a big fan of Maurice. I’ve seen him beat a Congolese here in May, and I was part of the Tanzanian Karim Mandonga’s fight, which attracted around 5,000 fans,” he revealed. Rudy, who has visited Kenya multiple times, praised the commission for its active role in developing boxing.

“The current KPBC office is more active compared to the past officials.  We hope more sponsors will come on board and help grow the sport locally,” he said.

He added: “KPBC is very consistent. It’s my sixth time here and I’ve seen positive developments.”

Rudy pointed to recent successes involving Kenyan boxers in international events, emphasising their potential for future growth.