The Dambe World Series, a professional boxing tournament showcasing the traditional Nigerian martial art of Dambe, has made its debut in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
This inaugural event marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Dambe, a sport that dates back centuries among West Africa’s Hausa speakers.
Dambe is a unique and physically demanding sport that involves fighters using one hand wrapped in rope for striking, while the other hand is used for defense and balance.
The sport is known for its high level of physicality and risk, with fighters often incorporating traditional medicine, charms, and prayers to protect themselves and gain an edge in the ring.
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The Dambe World Series aims to professionalize the sport while promoting its cultural heritage. The tournament features fighters from around the world, and its debut in Abuja has generated significant interest and excitement among fans.
The event was broadcast on DAZN, a British sports streaming service, and attracted a large audience. The Dambe World Series is a significant step forward for the sport, which has traditionally been practiced in informal settings.
The sport’s global reach and professional structure are expected to attract new fans and participants, while also providing a platform for talented fighters to showcase their skills.
Maxwell Kalu, founder of the West African Fighting Championship, emphasized the importance of professionalizing the sport while preserving its cultural heritage.
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The tournament featured a range of talented fighters, including Abdullahi “Coronavirus” Ali, a 20-year-old who has been fighting since he was a child.
Abdullahi “Coronavirus” Ali, (left) a 20-year-old who has been fighting since he was a child.
Coronavirus, known for his ferocious punches, expressed his excitement about the growing audience and the opportunities that the Dambe World Series provides.
The crowd was electric, with fans cheering on their favorite fighters and enjoying the high-energy atmosphere of the tournament.
The Dambe World Series continues to gain momentum and it’s likely that the sport will become increasingly popular around the world. With its unique blend of physicality, culture, and tradition, Dambe is poised to become a major player in the world of combat sports.
The success of the inaugural tournament has set the stage for future events, and fans are eagerly anticipating the next edition of the Dambe World Series
