The recently-completed Kigali Universe hosted the Genocide Memorial boxing tournament brought some flair and intense fights to the ring, as a host boxers from various countries in the region were vying for glory.

The event, organized annually by the Rwanda Boxing Federation, honors the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis. It this time round featured boxers from Rwanda, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.

It was Rwandan boxers who dominated the battles in the ring in various categories from amateurs to professionals. Women were also give a stage to show the boxing community what they are capable of.

Donatien Dusabe and Patrick Ndayishimiye emerged victorious in the tournament, with the former taking home the medal after defeating South Sudan's Patrick Atwi in a thrilling seven-round bout, arguably one the of the tournament, on Sunday night.

Meanwhile, Ndayishimiye also showcased his exceptional skills, overcoming Ethiopia's Nelson Mboka to claim victory in his match.

Star-studded boxing affair

The boxing ring at Kigali Universe was surrounded by a host of celebrities in various part of the sports and entertainment industry, who turned up to witness the best of East African boxing.

Notable attendees included star musician Bruce Melodie and his manager and 1:55 AM CEO Coach Gael, Cameroonian boxer Carlos Takam, African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) President Eyassu Berhanu, musician Dany Vumbi, choreographer Sherrie Silver, Veterans Club World Championship (VCWC) president Fred Siewe, celebrated movie interpreter Rock Kimomo and Ethiopian envoy to Rwanda Lulit Zewdie Gebremariam to name a few.

In addition to the professional bouts, the amateur category saw intense competition. ValantING Ntabaganyimana(Rwanda) defeated Samuel Elemin Joseph (South Sudan) in the 51kg

category and Iguru Rubamba (Rwanda) beat over Mel Deng Kual (South Sudan) in the 57kg category while and Genet Tsegaye of Ethiopia beat Kelia Iradukunda (Rwanda) in the women's 57kg category.

In the women's 67kg bout, Ange Nsengiyumva (Rwanda) beat Babra Lam (South Sudan) while, in the 63.5kg bout, Pacific Niyonzima (Rwanda) lost to Ethiopian Abreham Elem.

In all won Rwanda emerged winners of the 2024 Genocide Memorial boxing tournament, bagging three gold medals and three silver medals. Ethiopia came in second place with two gold medals while finished third with zero gold and three silver medals.

The Genocide Memorial Boxing Tournament not only highlighted the talents of Rwandan boxers but also served as a significant event for remembrance and unity, bringing together athletes and spectators from across the region.

Up and coming DJ Drizzy selected a playlist made up of only commemoration songs to keep the event relevant.