Kenyan boxers Douglas Omondi and Phelix Ochieng’ will target strong performances at the Eurasian Dauria Cup in Chita City, Russia, from September 6 to 13.
The International Youth Boxing Tournament will bring together promising fighters from across the world, giving the duo a chance to test themselves against quality opposition.
Omondi is determined to make his mark.
“It is a big opportunity for me to represent Kenya at a tournament of this level. I have been working hard and I want to give everything when I get into the ring,” he said.
“I know I will meet strong boxers from different countries, but that is the kind of challenge I want. I want to learn from every fight and show that Kenyan boxers can compete at this level.”
He wants to return home with valuable lessons.
“I want to come back from Russia a better boxer than the one who leaves Kenya. If I can learn from every opponent and every round, then the trip will already have helped me,” he said. “When I step into the ring, I will remember that I am carrying the Kenyan flag. That gives me extra motivation because I want people back home to be proud of my performance.”
Ochieng’ sees the tournament as an important test of his progress.
“Fighting boxers from different countries will help me understand where I stand and what I still need to improve,” he said. “My focus is to stay disciplined, listen to my coach and execute the plan. I do not want to rush anything because every round will be important.”
He will focus on one bout at a time.
“My first target is to prepare well, fight one opponent at a time and make the most of every opportunity I get,” he said.
Coach Julius Theuri believes the international exposure will help the pair develop.
“This tournament gives the boys an excellent platform to gain international experience. Our responsibility is to prepare them properly and make sure they understand what is required at this level,” he said.
“They will face different styles, different approaches and different levels of pressure. Those experiences are important because they help a boxer mature and become more complete.”
Theuri has urged the boxers to remain confident while respecting their opponents.
“We will respect every boxer we meet, but we will not be intimidated. The boys must go there with confidence, discipline and the hunger to compete,” he said.
