Shen eyes second win as Rising Stars series returns

Jin Shen and Muiruri 'Ruri' Irungu at Dragon Fitness Arena in Dagoretti/MUIGAI KIGURU

Fast-rising bantamweight boxer Jin Shen will be out to secure back-to-back victories when the third edition of the SportPesa Boxing Rising Stars series takes centre stage on May 28, at the DSTV Multichoice Studios in Jamhuri, Nairobi.

The 21-year-old returns to the ring riding on confidence after a successful debut in February, where he Jeremiah Abuko on unanimous decision against (39-37, 40-36, 40-36).

The bout marked his official entry into pro boxing, having previously competed in kickboxing and Muay Thai despite an early passion for boxing.

“I wanted to do boxing from early on but had to move to kickboxing and Muay Thai due to lack of games,” said Shen, who is of Chinese-Kenyan heritage.

“But when Maurice (UFS Bxng promoter Maurice Odera) brought the games and invited me, I saw an opportunity. My target is to win my second bout, if by KO, it will be better but even if it is left to the judges, I just need to do my part.”

Shen has since intensified his preparations at Dragon Fitness Arena in Dagoretti, Nairobi, where he trains under coach Kevine Onyango, sharpening areas he fell short in during his debut.

“I started training immediately focusing on pad work, strength and conditioning, weightlifting and cardio, so I am ready.”

He heads into his second bout against Ellas Njoroge with limited knowledge of his opponent but remains unfazed by the uncertainty.

“It will be just like the first fight, where I head into the ring not knowing what the opponent brings. But that’s okay,” he said. 

“I am grateful to SportPesa for bringing these bouts on regular basis. I am still young and getting such opportunities is the best platform to showcase our skills and gain experience.”

“Odera has been equally supportive, organising fights on a regular basis, especially targeting the grassroots boxers,” said Chen, born of a Chinese father and Kenyan mother.

Meanwhile, Shen is taking a measured approach to his boxing journey, prioritising growth and consistency.

“At the moment, my wish is to build a healthy record and gain experience. I might go for the East Africa bantamweight title and, long term, target bouts in Europe and elsewhere.”

He acknowledged the role of his support system in shaping his progress.

“I have been with Kevine since 2020, while still in school. He has helped me and supported me all along alongside my training partners and my family, although they are not so comfortable with my choice of sport,” he said.

“The biggest challenge for upcoming boxers is getting a good coach and an equipped gym. But I am lucky I met Kevo, whose training methods are effective.”

Some upcoming athletes look up to role models and seek to build their trade around them. However, Shen learns by observing others while maintaining his own identity in the ring.

“I might watch and absorb some skills but not try to fight like them. Maybe learn some aspects of their success including discipline, footwork, how they throw their jabs, how they react after being hit. But all in all, my target is to learn,” he said.

Also on the card is 22-year-old debutant Muiruri ‘Ruri’ Irungu, who faces John Logove in a four-round featherweight contest.

“I have always dreamt to be part of this amazing SportPesa Boxing and I’m happy to finally be set for my debut, all thanks to Odera and his UFS BXNG promotions, they have made this happen. I’m confident that I’ll nail a superb victory on the night,” noted Irungu.

SportPesa Partnership and Sponsorship Manager Japheth Akhulia urged fans not to miss the action.

He said SportPesa Boxing Rising Stars series will intensify their support for grassroots boxers as they tap into what he says is a sport with huge potential but limited opportunities.

Fight Card – May 28

Super Featherweight (6 rounds): Abdul Hakim vs Amos Amenya

Light Heavyweight (4 rounds): Elijah Kingi vs James Otieno

Bantamweight (4 rounds): Jin Shen vs Ellas Njoroge

Lightweight (4 rounds): Dennis Ashley vs Victor Oduor

Light Heavyweight (4 rounds): Gentry Ochieng vs Peter Wanda

Featherweight (4 rounds): Muiruri Irungu vs John Logove

Super Lightweight (4 rounds): Davis Gwaro vs McGregor Njoroge

Welterweight (4 rounds): Edwin Hayo vs Moses Siviya