Mafia Boxing Promotion Responds to Kiwalabye Allegations, Defends Integrity of Tanzania Bout

Mafia Boxing Promotion has issued a firm response to allegations made by Ugandan boxer Frank Kiwalabye, who recently claimed he and members of his team were drugged during his RTD loss in Tanzania, describing the accusations as “untrue and unfounded.”

Kiwalabye, who was stopped in the 6th round by Tanzanian fighter Ibrahim Mafia in Dar-es-Salaam, had suggested that unusual loss of focus and physical clarity during the fight pointed to possible foul play. His remarks sparked widespread debate across East Africa’s boxing community, raising concerns about fighter safety and event integrity.

Promotion Rejects Claims

In an official response, Mafia Boxing Promotion dismissed the allegations, maintaining that the bout was conducted under fair and professional conditions in accordance with contractual agreements.

“What Frank is saying is not the truth. This was a free and fair fight as agreed in the contract,” the promotion stated.

They further asserted that Kiwalabye was simply outperformed inside the ring, crediting Ibrahim Mafia for a superior display on the night.

“He was outclassed in all aspects by our boxer Ibrahim Mafia,” the statement added.

Call for Evidence

The promotion also challenged Kiwalabye to substantiate his claims, emphasizing that accusations of such magnitude require clear and verifiable proof.

“If he has any evidence, he should bring it forward. As Mafia Boxing Promotion, we have never engaged in such practices in any of our events,” the statement continued.

This response places the burden of proof on Kiwalabye and signals the promotion’s readiness to defend its reputation amid growing scrutiny.

Defending Reputation and Standards

Mafia Boxing Promotion went on to highlight its track record within the regional boxing scene, describing itself as a leading organizer committed to professionalism and fighter compensation.

According to the promotion:

• They are among the few companies that pay significant purses to visiting fighters
• Their events are conducted under structured agreements and standards
• Their fighters benefit from well-equipped training facilities, ensuring high levels of preparation

“We are one of the promotions that invest heavily in boxing. Our fighters are well prepared, and even visiting opponents benefit from fair compensation,” the statement noted.

A Growing Dispute in East African Boxing

The exchange between Kiwalabye and Mafia Boxing Promotion reflects a widening tension in cross-border boxing within East Africa, where issues of fairness, transparency, and fighter protection are increasingly under the spotlight.

While Kiwalabye’s claims raised serious concerns, the promotion’s rebuttal underscores the complexity of verifying such allegations without formal investigation or independent oversight.

What Comes Next?

As of now, no official inquiry has been announced by regulatory bodies regarding the bout. However, the public nature of the dispute may prompt calls for greater scrutiny and standardized oversight in regional boxing events.

For Kiwalabye, the situation remains unresolved, with his allegations now directly contested. For Mafia Boxing Promotion, the response represents an effort to protect its credibility and standing within the sport.

The Bigger Picture

With both sides holding firm positions, the focus now shifts to whether evidence, regulatory review, or mediation will emerge to clarify the situation.

Until then, the controversy continues to fuel debate — not just about one fight, but about the standards and safeguards governing professional boxing across the region.