Boxer Jose Kadima scored a knockout victory over Herbert Matovu to take control of the World Boxing Council Africa heavyweight championship belt at Emperor Place.
Kadima defeated Matovu in the first round in the main event of the Golden Gloves event, titled “Magic At The Palace.”
Appearing before a South African crowd, the Angolan boxer immediately took the initiative to attack from the opening bell. His speed and aggression made it difficult for Matovu to find his rhythm, preventing him from developing his prepared strategy.
Kadima immediately forced Matovu to the corner of the ring and rained down punches on him that caused the Ugandan boxer's head to be knocked back.
Before Matovu could reorganize his strategy, Kadima unleashed a barrage of punches that knocked him out after 36 seconds. The referee immediately stopped the fight and declared Kadima the winner by knockout in the first round.
With the victory, Kadima secured the WBC regional title, and the hope within his camp is that it will begin to move him further up the rankings. The title also provides crucial capital for Kadima to improve his standing in the heavyweight division and open up opportunities for more prestigious fights.
The Angolan boxer said he was pleased that the fight went according to his plan, which relied on the jab to open things up.
"This is a big deal, also for my country. I promise my next fight will be even bigger," said Kadima after the match.
In addition to capturing the WBC belt, Kadima also paved his way onto the international stage with a flawless professional record of nine wins and seven knockouts. This impressive record further solidifies his status as one of the top heavyweight prospects in Africa.
