Ruto delivers Sh4 million cash pledge for Majembe, Mbavu boxing match
President William Ruto has fulfilled his Sh4 million pledge towards the highly anticipated boxing showdown between Mbavu Destroyer and Majembe, injecting fresh momentum into Kenya’s growing local boxing scene ahead of the April 4 bout.
The funds were channelled through Lang’ata MP and media personality Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o.
Of the amount, Sh2 million is to purchase 2,000 gate tickets, while Mbavu Destroyer and Majembe each receive Sh1 million.
Speaking in the company of media personality Oga Obinna, the MP insisted on the need for sustained investment to grow boxing in Kenya.
“What I want is for us to be part of building the boxing fraternity. Sometimes, take one thing and follow it until the end; that is the best way. It’s called consistency. We need platforms for these athletes: halls, training spaces and proper systems, so that one day at a time we can change a sport,” he said.
Declaring his support for one of the fighters, Jalang’o added, “I am team Mbavu Destroyer. I will talk to the president to see if he can attend, but it will be crazy. We don’t want to turn this into a political rally; let people just enjoy. Guys, let us come out on April 4, 2026.”
Obinna, on his part, thanked the president, saying the gesture signalled a positive shift for the sport.
“Mr President, asante sana. We are very grateful. This is how we are going to be changing this game, one match at a time. Tumeanza na boxing. Kama uko na time, kuja u-attend. We will let people know how they can access the tickets the President has bought,” Obinna said.
The fight has since emerged as one of the most talked-about local entertainment-sports crossovers, with both fighters having built popularity through digital content before transitioning into organised competition.
When meeting Jalang’o on Sunday, February 8, 2026, the Head of State referenced the viral phrase ‘Weka mawe’.
“Okay, Jalas, uyu Majembe na Mbavu Destroyer, uyu wa kuweka mawe, mimi nawekeea Majembe one million na Mbavu Destroyer one million. Hii ni mbaya,” he said amid laughter.