Leading global promoter of a local boxing, Dambe, The African Warriors Fighting Championship (AWFC), has announced its first-ever ‘King of Warriors.’
The championship in partnership with Stake.com is scheduled to take place October 14, 2023 at Heritage Africa Village Square (Bear Hub) in Abuja.
AWFC Founder, Maxwell Kalu in a chat with newsmen said “King of Warriors is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Dambe and a platform for African athletes to shine.
He revealed that the event will showcase how AWFC is working to elevate the sport of Dambe and take it to new audiences both at home and abroad.
“AWFC aims to preserves and promotes the ancient African martial art of Dambe and the broader fighting traditions of the continent. Through events like the King of Warriors, AWFC provides a digital platform for African athletes to showcase their talent and heritage by producing fight content and managing a national network of talented athletes.”
On his part, Chief Marketing Officer for Stake.com, Akhil Sarin said, “We can’t wait for the first-ever King of Warriors event this weekend. Our aim for this partnership was to shine a light on Dambe, and we hope everyone tuning into the sport for the first time enjoys a fantastic spectacle.”
According to the organisers, The King of Warriors event will showcase eight (8) thrilling fights featuring champions and promising prospects, adding that featured athletes have been drawn from across Nigeria and will be fighting to represent the three Dambe houses of Kudawa (Kudu), Arewa (Jamus), and Gurumada.
The headline fight will pit Dambe champions Bahagon Yesanda and Shagon Agantsara against each other. Other matches on the night include: Coronavirus VS Dan Daba Auta Bahagon Ali Kawoji VS Garkuwar Bahagon YasandaAutan Danbunza VS Dogon Baura Dogon Messi VS Yar MageDogon Gurumada VS Shagon Isah KasaDan Ali Bata Isarka VS Bahagon Mai BulalaShagon Yellow VS IleleIn Dambe matches.
As a rule in the fight, athletes are permitted to strike with one hand which is wrapped tightly in a knotted cord and known as “the spear”. The other hand is used defensively and is known as “the shield”. Athletes can also kick with both legs.
AWFC Dambe matches are contested over three rounds, and victory is secured by knocking out an opponent or causing his hand, knee, or back to touch the ground. Dating back hundreds of years, Dambe is a form of traditional boxing native to Northern Nigeria. The sport emerged as warriors trained for warfare before evolving into a pastime where young men competed to prove their bravery.