The Leopards of Congolese boxing made a splash at the 2024 Mandela African Boxing Cup, winning an impressive total of 19 medals. With 10 gold, 4 silver and 6 bronze medals, the boxers from the Democratic Republic of Congo shone and asserted their supremacy in the African ring.
The first edition of the Mandela African Boxing Cup ended on Sunday, April 21, 2024 in Durban, with the DRC at the top of the rankings. Congolese boxers dominated their opponents in different weight categories, taking turns to win the coveted medals. Names like Diyoka Bénédicte, Gisèle Nyembo, Marcelat Sakobi, Merveille Mbalayi, Steve Kulenguluka, Pita Kabeji, Mbabi Marie Joël Mwika and Antony Bweluzey marked the event by winning gold. Other talented athletes such as Thérèse Yumba, Hassan Kabengele, Nathan Mbeli, Idris Kitangila, Landry Balo, Fiston Mbaya, Boniface Zengela, Tumbekwa Zola Livens and David Tshama also shone by winning silver or bronze.
This exceptional performance by the Congolese boxers in South Africa is a testament to their fitness and determination. In addition to the podium honours, the medallists were also rewarded financially, with bonuses of up to $5,000 for gold medals. This recognition is a testament to the commitment and talent of DRC athletes in the field of boxing.
The participation of the Leopards in the Mandela African Boxing Cup is particularly important, as it constitutes essential preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Marcelat Sakobi, who qualified for this major event, thus had the opportunity to compete against high-level opponents and to refine her preparation to worthily represent her country.
This impressive haul of medals confirms the preeminent place of Congolese boxing on the African scene. Surpassing their competitors at the recent African Games in Accra, the Congolese boxers once again demonstrate their talent and determination to excel in their discipline.
In conclusion, the Leopards of Boxing have once again demonstrated their value and commitment at the 2024 Mandela African Boxing Cup. Their success, both sporting and financial, is a source of pride for the DRC and a testament to the quality of Congolese athletes. Congolese boxing continues to shine on the international scene and inspire many young talents to follow in their footsteps towards sporting excellence.