Kenyans Delighted by Fatuma Zarika’s Victory over Yeimi Mercado

Kenya’s champion Fatuma ‘Iron Fist’ Zarika has retained her WBC title. Zarika took on Yamileth Mercado of Mexico in the World Boxing Council (WBC) World Super Bantamweight battle at KICC, Nairobi. Zarika garnered a total of 290 points to retain the title against her strong challenger who managed 280 points.

Zarika got 94′, 97′ and 99′ points respectively while Yamileth got 96′, 93′ and 91′ points in the same order as per the three judges who presided over the fight.

The Kenya’s favorite has so far lined up in 42 fights, winning 30, losing 12 and drawing two. In 2016, Zarika made history when she became the first Kenyan to win the WBC world title after trouncing Jamaican Alicia Ashley in Flint, USA.

The 20-year-old Mercado, who weighs 55.5kg and made her debut in professional boxing with a victory against compatriot Yoatzin Meraz in 2014 looks determined to upstage Zarika, who came back two weeks ago from Liverpool, United Kingdom, where she attended a two-month training.

Before the fight Zarika said she was ready to defend her title in front of home fans.

“I am grateful to all my fans. Thanks for coming in large numbers to support me. If it were not for you I wouldn’t have managed and I will always be grateful to you,” she said after she was declared the winner.

Here is how Kenyans reacted to her win:

Congratulations @FatumaZarika on retaining your WBC Super Bantamweight Title. You have done Kenya proud. An impressive performance from @YeimiMercado16 as well. Hongera

— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) September 9, 2018

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