The Tanzanian boxing commission sees nothing wrong with Mtu Kazi's frequent fights despite the risk of injury and burnout
The Tanzania Professional Boxing Commission (TPBRC) has come out in staunch defense of boxer Karim 'Mtu Kazi' Mandonga, who has been raising eyebrows with his relentless fighting schedule.
Despite facing criticism from boxing stakeholders across the East African region, the TPBRC maintains that Mandonga's actions are entirely within his rights as a professional boxer.
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Karim Mandonga's remarkable feat of four bouts in just 35 days, with three fights taking place every seven days, has left the boxing community in awe.
The streak includes two back-to-back losses, with the latest being a technical knockout against Ugandan Moses Golola in Mwanza last Saturday.
However, Mandonga's recent bouts have also sparked concern, especially in light of his rigorous fight schedule.
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Just a week before the match with Golola, Mandonga suffered a points loss against Daniel Wanyonyi in Kenya.
Prior to that, he had a bout in Tanzania against Charles Misanjo after an intense eight-round fight, followed by another against Mussa Omary on July 15.
In response to concerns raised by some stakeholders over Mandonga's frequency of fights, the president of TPBRC, Chaurembo Palasa, has staunchly defended the boxer's right to compete continuously.
"There is no problem playing continuously, why are there boxers doing sparring every day? When the boxer himself is fit and the doctor agrees to fight, he plays and there is no problem,” he argued.
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The TPBRC's unwavering support for Mandonga stems from the boxer's exemplary fitness levels, as attested by medical professionals overseeing his matches.
The East African boxing community has been abuzz with discussions about Mandonga's remarkable feat, with fans divided over the wisdom of his intense fighting schedule.
Some boxing pundits commend the boxer's courage and skill, while others expressed concerns about potential burnout or increased risk of injuries.
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Regardless of the ongoing debate, Mandonga's achievement has undoubtedly put Tanzanian boxing on the map, drawing international attention to the region's burgeoning talent.