Kenyan tycoon Ronald Karauri’s SportPesa backs local boxing again

SportPesa, the gaming brand led by Kenyan businessman Ronald Karauri, has renewed its push to support boxing across the country, marking a full return to a sport it backed for years before stepping away in 2019. The company says the comeback is part of a long-term plan to rebuild local competitions and help Kenyan fighters regain a presence on major stages.

Karauri announced the commitment during the fifth edition of the Ultra Fighting Series (UFS BXNG) Night, where SportPesa served as the main sponsor. The event, held at the Edge Convention Centre in South C, Nairobi, featured a card that drew local and regional attention, including the Women’s Pugilistic Syndicate of Tanzania Super Bantamweight title bout.

Boxing funding revived by SportPesa

Speaking after the fights, Karauri said the company is “officially back” in the boxing ring after nearly six years away. SportPesa had halted its support in 2019, a break that created a gap in funding and visibility for the sport. He noted that while other companies helped fill the void, SportPesa’s return signals a renewed focus on athletes who have struggled for resources.

Karauri said the company’s plan goes beyond headline events, emphasizing that SportPesa wants to restart development at the grassroots level and help young fighters grow into professional contenders. He said the firm will sponsor more events in 2025 and work with local promoters to build a steady calendar of competitions.

SportPesa expands role in local sports

SportPesa’s renewed interest in boxing fits into a broader return to sports support across the country. In March 2024, it introduced the “Tujiamini” program, which promotes youth talent in athletics, football, basketball and other disciplines. The initiative has helped position SportPesa as a major backer of local sports at a time when many programs face funding pressure.

Its track record stretches beyond boxing. In 2023 SportPesa boosted Kenyan rugby with significant support for the national sevens team, sponsoring the National Sevens Circuit with Ksh15 million ($103,000) and the 2023/2024 season with Ksh22 million ($151,000).

The partnerships underscored the company’s role in strengthening sports from the community level to the international stage. The renewed boxing project is another step in restoring a sport that once produced some of Kenya’s most admired athletes. With SportPesa back in the mix, fighters may now have a clearer path to training, competition and recognition.