Boxing: Junior Makabu, first Congolese crowned world champion

Text by: David Kalfa Follow

Junior Ilunga Makabu became on January 31, 2020 the first Congolese world champion in boxing in one of the four major federations. He clinched the WBC light heavyweight belt this Friday in Kinshasa, defeating Pole Michal Cieslak by decision of the judges.

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Junior Ilunga Makabu entered the history of Congolese sport and African boxing on January 31, 2020 in Kinshasa. In front of his audience, the "Leopard" of Kananga became the first boxer of DRC world champion within one of the four big professional federations (WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF). Here he is, adorned with the green and gold belt of king of heavy-light (cruiserweights).

But it was hard against the Polish Michal Cieslak who had 19 victories in as many fights before this WBC World Championship! Junior Makabu had to go after the twelve rounds to win by decision of the judges.

The confrontation, which took place in the open air, even started rather badly, facing a more precise Cieslak and having a better draw. It is from the 3rd recovery that the local star begins to move forward. And on the 4th recovery, the Congolese managed to place a powerful left hook, causing his opponent to stagger.

Counted by the referee, Michal Cieslak nevertheless set off again and put Junior Makabu in difficulty, in turn. The latter is counted during the 5th recovery.

A war of attrition

The following ? A trench war between the two men. The dampness of Kinshasa does not do the business of Michal Cieslak who seems to tire. He certainly manages to strike a few more shots to the holder of the WBC silver belt of cruiserweights. But he is hit in the nose and bleeds.

At the end of the final recovery, Junior Makabu is sure of his fact and raises his fists to the sky. Before his family and the president of the country, Félix Tshisekedi, he was declared the winner. He was crowned after his 25th victory in 27 pro fights.

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