Mwabili raises safety concerns over Majembe vs Mbavu Destroyer fight
Ezekiel Mwabili, Director of MELK Boxing Promotion, has raised safety concerns regarding the much-anticipated Majembe Majembe vs Mbavu Destroyer boxing match, urging fans and organizers to prioritize safety and professionalism in the sport, days after a boxer collapsed and died in a ring in Kisumu.
Addressing boxing enthusiasts hours to the much-anticipated bout on Saturday, April 4, 2026, Mwabili stressed that weight differences between fighters should never be taken lightly, especially in a combat sport where physical disparities can significantly impact outcomes inside the ring.
Deciding factor
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Ahead of the 10:30 pm fight, Majembe weighed 70.80 kilograms while Mbavu weighed 67.65 kilograms, a difference that Mwabili argues is a great factor in determining the winner.
“Boxing fans, we need to be honest. 70.80kg vs 67.65kg is not ‘just a small difference.’ In boxing, that gap can decide who takes more punishment not just who wins,” Mwabili said.
The upcoming fight has generated widespread attention, particularly on social media, where it has been promoted as a major spectacle with politicians, corporates and individuals pledging millions of shillings. However, Mwabili warned that enthusiasm alone should not overshadow the importance of safety protocols and established boxing standards.
He highlighted growing concerns about individuals without adequate boxing backgrounds stepping into competitive environments, describing such situations as potentially dangerous rather than entertaining.
“Now add this: fighters with no real boxing background stepping into a professional ring. That’s not just entertainment that’s risk,” he noted.
Mwabili emphasized that boxing is not merely about spectacle but about discipline, preparation, and strict adherence to weight categories designed to protect athletes. According to him, ignoring these established guidelines undermines the integrity of the sport and increases the likelihood of injury.
“Let’s not blur the lines. Boxing is a combat sport governed by discipline, weight classes, and safety for a reason. When those standards are ignored, it’s not hype anymore it’s danger,” he added.
Attention
Despite his concerns, Mwabili acknowledged the massive attention surrounding the Majembe Majembe vs Mbavu Destroyer bout, noting that the interest reflects a growing appetite for boxing among fans.
“Yes, the Majembe Majembe vs Mbavu Destroyer fight has attention. And that tells us something powerful, people are hungry for boxing,” he said.
However, he urged promoters and organizers to be transparent about the nature of such events, distinguishing between professional fights and entertainment exhibitions.
“But here’s the truth: If it’s entertainment, call it an exhibition. If it’s professional, respect the rules. Because if we normalize shortcuts today, we won’t have a sport left to protect tomorrow,” Mwabili concluded.
Mwabili’s argument comes as debate continues among fans and stakeholders about the safety standards surrounding the upcoming bout, with many calling for clearer regulations to ensure the well-being of fighters while maintaining the integrity of boxing in Kenya.
