Boxing, a noble and demanding sport, once again offered its share of emotions and remarkable performances during the 21st African Championship held in Kinshasa in October 2024. This major sporting event brought together athletes from all over the continent to compete in a tournament where each blow landed, each carefully calculated dodge, contributes to forging the legend of these shadow fighters.
In the women’s category of under 54 kg, Merveille Bisambu, proud representative of the Democratic Republic of Congo, brilliantly won her fight against Zulfa Macho Yusufu of Tanzania. Breaking the limits of effort and determination, she was able to impose her strength and talent to reach the second round of the competition. A moment of victory and pride for the DRC, testifying to the excellence of its athletes on the international scene.
Within the DRC Leopards national team, the performances of the male boxers were also in the spotlight. Despite Badibanga Badianyama’s defeat against Mwale Mwengo of Zambia, each fight represents an opportunity to surpass oneself and push one’s own limits. Nathan Mbeli, triumphant against Reche Odzoua of the Republic of Congo by referee’s stoppage, demonstrated once again the power and mastery of the Congolese boxers.
The passion and intensity of boxing was also expressed in Landry Matete’s victory against Tamba Kwahou Janvier of Cameroon. Every blow, every dodge, every moment of this confrontation reflected the determination and talent of the fighters engaged in this fierce competition. Each victory is the fruit of hard work, meticulous preparation and unwavering commitment to the noble art of boxing.
Over the course of the fights, the DRC has collected an impressive record, asserting its presence and strength on the continental boxing scene. Each victory, each defeat, each moment of glory or disappointment contributes to forging the path of these exceptional athletes, flying high the colors of their country and their passion for boxing.
The 21st African Boxing Championship in Kinshasa will remain etched in memories as a moment of intensity, combativeness and surpassing oneself. Beyond the results, it is the spirit of competition, fair play and camaraderie that animated every moment of this major sporting event. Boxing, through its demands, rigor and raw beauty, testifies to the greatness of the men and women who practice it, carrying within them the spirit of victory and resilience.