Mbavu Destroyer vs Majembe: Ruto pledges Sh1m each

President William Ruto, alongside Langata MP Phelix Odiwuor alias Jalang'o, share a light moment/PCS SCREENGRAB

In a light-hearted moment at State House, President William Ruto and Lang’ata Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalango, shared a humorous exchange over the highly anticipated fight between Majembe and Mbavu Destroyer.

The boxing match, scheduled for today, April 4, has captured the attention of fans across Nairobi, and apparently, the President himself.

A video on social media shows the two leaders engaging in playful banter as they discussed the fight.

President Ruto asked, “Sasa huyu Majembe… ehe?” prompting Jalango to respond, “Majembe na Mbavu, the Destroyer.”

The President jokingly referred to Mbavu as “huyu wa kuweka mawe”, leading to laughter from both men.

Mbavu Destroyer quickly gained attention after video clips circulated showing him training with stones placed on his body

“I wish them all the best,” President Ruto said, pledging Sh1 million to each fighter.

“Mimi nawatakia heri, waende washughulike na Mimi nawekea Majembe Sh1M, Mbavu the Destroyer Sh1M.”

Jalango responded playfully, urging the President to call it “mbaya,” to which Ruto agreed, laughing. “Hii ni mbaya… vile naona, hii ni mbaya,” he said, signalling his excitement for what promises to be an action-packed night.

The anticipated fight, billed as the “Vurugu Fight Night,” is set to take place at 10:30 PM at the Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi.

Fans are eagerly awaiting the showdown, which promises intense action and lively commentary from DJ Afro, also known as James Mwangi.

The event is organised by promoter Oga Obinna to transform the lives of local boxers while also boosting the profile of boxing in Kenya.

The highly anticipated Fight Night has attracted significant attention not just for the fighters, but also for the impressive array of pledges and prizes that have been announced ahead of the match.

In addition to the President’s pledge, several political and community figures have also made generous contributions to the fight’s support and prize pool.

Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri pledged Sh2 million in support of the event, while businessman Oketch Salah added Sh200,000 in cash.

Pastor Dorcas Rigathi joined in by purchasing 400 tickets worth Sh400,000 to send her supporters to the arena.

Beyond cash contributions, sponsors have raised the stakes with transformational prizes. Notably, Odi Bets unveiled a brand-new Toyota Noah that will go to the winner of the main fight, adding further excitement and prestige.

These pledges have transformed what began as a viral, street-style rivalry into a nationally celebrated sporting event. Fans are now not only anticipating a thrilling fight but also the remarkable rewards and recognition awaiting the victor.

Whether Majembe or Mbavu emerges victorious, the laughter shared by President Ruto and Jalango will remain a memorable highlight, showing that even in the highest corridors of power, humour and enthusiasm for national sports can thrive.