Mandonga: Witty Tanzanian boxer turning defeats into fortunes

Dar es Salaam. In the energetic world of boxing, where every thrown punch carries the weight of glory and defeat, there exists a figure who has redefined the meaning of victory: Karim Said, famously known as Karim Mandonga.

Mandonga, 44, also nicknamed ‘Mtu Kazi' (literally meaning a workman), is a Tanzanian boxer, whose journey in the ring defies conventional norms.

With his mantra, "When I strike, it's like I've won, and when I'm struck, it's like I've won regardless," Mandonga embodies the spirit of resilience in the face of misfortune. Throughout his career, he has often found himself on the receiving end of brutal blows.

As of now, he has fought 14 times, suffered four defeats, recorded four draws, and six wins, meaning that he has not won more than half of the played games.

Yet, rather than viewing these moments as defeats, he sees them as integral parts of his journey. His unorthodox approach to boxing has earned him both admiration and criticism from fans and peers alike.

"I always believe that true victory lies not in the outcome of a single fight, but in the courage to keep fighting no matter what," he told The Citizen.

"Every punch thrown, every blow absorbed—it's all part of the journey towards self-discovery and personal growth, and that’s why I’m famous even among the boxers who have defeated me in the ring," he adds.

He says boxing has transformed his life in ways he could never have imagined. From his humble beginnings as a layman, he has risen to a place where he has cars, advertisements, financial stability, and a comfortable lifestyle.

“Some people used to bully me because of my approach, but now they are admiring my lifestyle,” he says, adding, “The game has been my ticket out of a life of struggle and uncertainty, opening up the opportunities I never thought would be possible.” he narrates.

Indeed, Mandonga's philosophy has sparked a debate within the boxing community. While some admire his resilience and willingness to embrace both victory and defeat, others query the wisdom of his approach. However, one thing is certain: Mandonga's popularity continues to soar.

"As a boxing promoter in Tanzania, I've witnessed first-hand the impact of Mandonga's approach; it’s hard to be like him, but many people like his style," comments Mr Karigo Godson.

The Tanzanian boxing promoter continues, "While traditionalists may criticise him, there's no denying that he brings excitement and drama to the sport.”

“Many people tune in to watch him fighting, not just to see him win but how he overcomes adversity," adds Mr Godson.

According to Mandonga, he started his boxing journey in his 20s, when he used to be a bouncer and a porter in his hometown of Morogoro.

He says despite skepticism from close friends and the public, he pursued his passion with unwavering determination.

His rise to prominence may have been unconventional, but it was fuelled by a burning desire to prove his worth in the ring, according to him.

"It hasn't been easy," admits Mandonga. "There have been times when I've questioned whether it's all worth it. But then I step into the ring, and all those doubts fade away. Boxing is not just a sport for me; it's a way of life," he says.

He continues: "I didn’t start boxing at a young age, but in my 20s, it quickly became my passion," he recalls. "I knew it wasn't going to be easy, especially coming from humble beginnings, but I was willing to work hard and make sacrifices to pursue my dreams, here I am now."

Mandonga's technician and tactician, Mr Said Said, aka Kisopu, says the trainee trains diligently despite recording repeated defeats.

“He is a hard-working trainee with a great passion for learning and improving his boxing skills. Although defeats can be discouraging for some boxing students, he views each loss as an opportunity to learn and grow. He has a heart of steel and an unwavering determination in tough situations,” he shares.

While some boxing stakeholders may question his approach, others see it as a refreshing change in a sport often dominated by ego and bravado.

His willingness to embrace vulnerability and view defeats as a stepping stone to success has inspired the new generation of fighters to approach the sport with humility and resilience.

"I appreciate his approach, and I love it for real. It's not just about winning for him; it's about the journey and the lessons learned along the way,” says Mussa Kimbeo, a fan of the boxing game.

“He's not afraid of putting himself out there, even if it means taking a few punches in the process. That’s why he has more followers than most legendary boxers in the country," he adds.

However, not all fans share the same sentiment as some believe that Mandonga's willingness to absorb punishment is reckless and sets a dangerous precedent for the young generation aspiring to become competent boxers. They argue that victory should always be the ultimate goal, and anything less is a failure.

"I respect him, but I can't help as I’m worried about his health. Boxing is a brutal sport, and taking unnecessary punishment can have serious future consequences. I hate seeing him sacrifice his well-being for the sake of entertainment," expresses another boxing fan, Julietta Alex.

Yet, despite the mixed feelings from stakeholders, Mandonga remains undeterred in his quest for greatness.

He continues to step into the ring with courage and conviction, knowing that each fight, win or lose, brings him one step closer to his ultimate victory: the triumph of the human spirit.

He says that as long as fans cheer him, Mandonga will continue to defy the odds and inspire the young generation.

“It is part of our job to change the landscape of this game so that we can have a lot of fans like in football and music. Imagine if the country had at least ten boxers like me; we would have been advertising our game in and outside the country and adding so many followers,” he notes.

Tanzanian boxer Mfaume Mfaume shares that, "I've observed his approach closely, and while I respect his resilience, I can't help but feel it's a risky path. Boxing is a brutal sport, and absorbing unnecessary punishment can have long-term consequences.”

“While there's something to be said about his philosophical outlook, I believe in prioritising defence and minimising damage in the ring."

Another boxer, Mada Maugo, who fought Mandonga on April 11, this year, admits that the latter's mindset is refreshing in a sport often dominated by egos and bravado.