Regional title fuels Wasike’s belief ahead of Commonwealth charge

Joshua Wasike (L) during the Nightmare in Nairobi second edition weight-in with Tanzania's Jacob Maganga/ TEDDY MULEI

After delivering a thunderous statement at the second edition of Nightmare in Nairobi, newly crowned East and Central Africa cruiserweight champion Joshua Wasike has set his sights on the Commonwealth throne.

Wasike emphatically dismantled Tanzania’s Jacob Maganga, flattening the seasoned campaigner with a brutal third-round knockout to clinch his maiden regional strap.

‎Having rocked the experienced Maganga in the second round with crisp, well-timed combinations, Wasike came out for the third with intent written all over him.

He pressed forward and twice sent the Tanzanian crashing to the canvas. The third knockdown proved decisive, as Maganga failed to beat the referee’s count, handing Wasike a career-defining KO victory.

‎The triumph secured the 33-year-old his first regional belt, a milestone moment in a journey that began two decades ago.

‎“I started boxing when I was 13 years old. This is now my first belt and it really means a lot to me,” Wasike said, emotion evident in his voice.

‎He admitted the bout demanded more than brute force.

‎“The match was really tough, so I had to use my brains to win,” he stated, underlining the tactical discipline that broke Maganga down.

‎Before the showdown, Commonwealth Boxing Council chief Reuben Ndolo had raised the stakes, promising the winner a shot at the coveted Commonwealth title.

Ndolo, who also serves as president of the Kenya Professional Boxing Commission, made it clear the pathway is open.

‎“Whoever is going to win this East and Central African bout will have a shot at the Commonwealth title,” Ndolo confirmed.

‎“Any boxer who wins this is already rated in the Commonwealth as one of the best 10, so he is ready to go for the shot. After the fight, even next month they can get the fight whenever they are ready,” he added.

‎The current Commonwealth cruiserweight champion is 22-year-old British fighter Aloys Youmbi Junior, who claimed the belt with a knockout victory in May 2025.

The opportunity presents Wasike with more than just another fight; a leap onto a much bigger stage.

‎“It means a lot to get a shot at the Commonwealth title. It’s a big thing. I am going back to the gym to continue preparing for bigger fights,” he said, signalling his hunger for greater glory.

‎He reserved heartfelt praise for the fans who packed the arena and roared him on to victory.

‎“I appreciate the fans. The crowd really turned up to show support. The atmosphere was really good.”

‎As he marches toward a potential Commonwealth clash, Wasike hopes the same electric backing will follow him into future battles.

‎“I hope the fans can continue showing up like that in future matches.”