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All-Africa Games gold medalist Edwin Okong'o is a proud Kenyan man after winning his first bout at the World Olympic Qualifiers in Bangkok.
Okong'o knocked out Malian opponent Mohamadou Gory Mali in the first round of their light heavyweight round of 64.
His win was a positive start for Team Kenya, seeking to compete in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France.
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In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke, the boxer disclosed that Kenya sent six boxers to the competition.
He added that only two had competed so far, and the bad news was that the team captain had lost his match.
"I have two boxing matches left to clinch an Olympics ticket. I am positive I'll win tomorrow's bout against my Mongolian competitor," he said.
Deputy coach David Munuhe praised Okong’o’s display, asserting that he was a class ahead of his competitor.
According to Munuhe, the Malian was a polished opponent but the Kenyan put up a better show in terms of experience and form.
"He’s in a class of his own, and we believe he’s bound to do better in the subsequent bouts,” the assistant coach noted.
He reiterated Okong’o’s words, adding that the win would motivate him to face Mongolia’s Ganzorio Dalal in the round of 32.
In March 2024, the armed forces rewarded Corporal Edwin Okong'o after an impressive show at the 13th All-African Games in Ghana.
The officer based at Wajir Air Base (WAB) was promoted to Sergeant by Commander KAF, Major General John Omenda.
Sgt Okong'o made history as the first boxer from East and Central Africa to win a gold medal in 17 years.
Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke
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Collage of Sergeant Edwin Okong'o knocking out his opponent.
Kenyan Edwin Okong'o Knocks Out Malian Mohamadou Gory in 1st Light
PHOTOS: Kenya's Edwin Okong'o secures knockout victory in World Olympic