Former Africa Boxing Union (ABU) champion Daniel Wanyonyi of Kenya knocked down Tanzania’s Karim “Mtu Kazi” Mandonga twice before taking a majority decision in a non-title light heavyweight rematch at Sarit Centre Expo on Saturday.
Wanyonyi grabbed control of the bout in the fourth round, putting Mandonga to the canvas with lethal combinations in the sixth and tenth rounds.
After the sixth round, Mandonga was saved by the bell when referee Julius Odhiambo made his standing count. Mandango also kissed the canvas in the tenth round, but was able to survive the count.
Judges George Athumani, Wycliffe Marende, and Leonard Wanga all scored 100-88, 100-88, and 100-80 in favor of Wanyonyi, respectively. It was delicious retribution for Wanyonyi, who had lost a technical knockout earlier in the year
“This victory means a lot to me because I am not only back but I am much better than before,” said Wanyonyi, who is eager to recapture his ABU light heavyweight title.
Wanyonyi attributed his victory to the modern equipment that he has been using for training at the gymnasium based at the Nyayo National Stadium.
“I also told you that I had not trained well when I met Mandonga for the first time. He felt what I am made of and I want a rematch to teach him more lessons,” said Wanyonyi, who thanked the fans and Ultra Fight Series Promotions for the faith they had in him.
Mandonga was graceful in defeat.
“Wanyonyi was a better boxer tonight and congratulations to him for a well deserved victory,” said Mandonga, adding that it will be much in order for a rematch to settle the scores.
“Remember I knocked him out and he took a unanimous decision. He will never knock me out,” vowed Mandonga, who promised to return better prepared for the next fight.
