Nairobi County were crowned champions of the 2025 National Intermediate Boxing Championship, solidifying their reputation as the “Mecca of Boxing in Kenya” after three days of fierce action at Thika Community Hall.
The Capital City side emerged top after clinching six of the sixteen contested weight categories, earning 24 points—well ahead of their closest challengers, Kisumu County, who finished with 10 points, and Mombasa County with 7 points. The trio of Nairobi (Capital City), Kisumu (Lake City), and Mombasa (Coastal City) retained their traditional stronghold at the top of the national boxing standings.
The packed Thika Community Hall erupted in celebration when local hero James Wanjohi delivered Kiambu County’s only gold medal with a stoppage win over Kisumu’s Ferdinand Ochieng in the second round of the light middleweight final—ending a long medal drought for the host county.
In a surprising twist, Kenya Police’s Emmanuel Omollo stopped Nairobi’s Glen Khabib in the first round of the men’s lightweight final, defying expectations of a close encounter. Migori County’s debut victory hopes were dashed when Prisons’ Salim Ramadhan overpowered Elly Otieno in the third round.
Kisumu County, widely hailed as the tournament’s most improved team, took gold in the women’s 65kg and men’s super-heavyweight categories, along with silver in the men’s light welterweight and light middleweight divisions. Their 10-point finish earned them second place overall. Kisumu County Boxing Association Secretary General Dominic Opiyo boldly declared:
“If Nairobi is the Mecca of Boxing, then Kisumu’s coronation as the King of Saudi Arabia will happen at the Kenya Open. Soon, we’ll own Mecca.”
The championship finals were attended by Boxing Federation of Kenya President Anthony “Jamal” Otieno, Secretary General Dave Munuhe, and national team head coach Benjamin Moses. Veteran BBC award-winning journalist John “Ish Ish” Nene also graced the occasion as the event’s master of ceremonies, offering engaging commentary and celebrating Kenya’s boxing heritage.
The next national boxing event, the National Open Boxing Championship, is scheduled to take place from April 17 to 19 in Nairobi.
Final Team Standings:
1. Nairobi County – 24 pts
2. Kisumu County – 10 pts
3. Mombasa County – 7 pts
4. Kenya Prisons Department – 6 pts
5. Nakuru County – 6 pts
6. Migori County – 4 pts
7. Kiambu County – 3 pts
8. Kenya Police Service – 3 pts
9. Kwale County – 2 pts
10. Laikipia County – 2 pts
11. Kajiado County – 0 pts
12. Machakos County – 0 pts
13. Homa Bay County – 0 pts
