Kenya's Kimario is the new regional king

Kenya's Albert Kimario after winning in a past bout. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Kenya's Albert Kimario is the new Africa Boxing Union (ABU) East and Central Africa Featherweight title champion.

Kimario destroyed Ugandan boxing sensation Jamil Kaiwa with a knock-out in the ninth round in the thrilling fight at Nairobi's Charter Hall at the weekend.

The bout had been scheduled for 10 rounds, but ended in a dramatic fashion when Kimario secured a victory in the ninth, with an official stoppage time of 1 minute and 40 seconds.

The Kenyan pugilist showcased dominance throughout the fight which was supervised by ABU Secretary General Maureen Mulangira.

Following the victory, Kimario now takes his fight tally to 15 including 11 victories (6KOs), 3 defeats all Kos and a draw.

"I prepared well; I thank fans for turning out to support me. I call upon local promoters to come out to help us win these international belts," Kimario said.

"The boxers were really good, they were all in weight and the fight was balanced. Both boxers gave us a show to remember, this is what we expect from promoters," said Mulangira.

"As KPBC, we plan to work in tandem with the government and take boxing back as number two sport in Kenya, just the way it used to be," said Kenya Professional Boxing Commission (KPBC) President Reuben Ndolo.