Majembe Opens Up on the Harsh Reality of Kenyan Boxing

Kenyan boxer Majembe, who has spent the past three years in the sport, has opened up about the realities of boxing in the country.

In an interview with Mpasho, Majembe described boxing as a tough and demanding game, both physically and mentally, saying that tension accompanies every fighter once they step into the ring.

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“Boxing is hard. Even after throwing words around during training or outside the ring, the moment you get in, there’s tension. You have to be ready for anything,” Majembe said.

He also addressed a common misconception about boxing in Kenya. Many people believe the sport encourages theft or negative behaviour, but Majembe strongly disagrees. “That’s not true. Boxing teaches discipline, focus, and respect. It’s a sport, not a life of crime,” he added.

Struggles for Fair Pay

Majembe revealed that one of the biggest challenges in Kenyan boxing is the lack of adequate financial reward. Fighters often play intense matches but receive very little compensation.

“I have fought many matches in Kisumu and was sometimes paid as little as 50 Ksh, 200 Ksh, 150 Ksh, and other times, I wasn’t paid at all,” he said.

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He hopes to change this and push the sport forward. “I want to make boxing more popular in Kenya. I am working hard to attract sponsors so that upcoming boxers can see that someone is trying to make a difference. I want to leave a mark for the next generation,” Majembe explained.

Preparation and Mindset

On his preparation for upcoming bouts, Majembe shared his training diet and confidence boosters. “I eat eggs, chicken, and ugali. Ugali makes me very confident,” he said with a laugh.

Looking ahead, Majembe is ready for his next challenge against fellow Kenyan boxer Mbavu Destroyer. “Aki, come na umangaa, nitakuwa mangaa pia,” he said.

He explained the mindset: “When someone comes at you mad, pretend to be mad as well. It’s about matching your opponent’s energy without losing focus.”