The partnership saw Zarika train with some of the best boxing coaches across the world, including in Liverpool with British boxer, Tony Bellew ahead of her victorious WBC Bantamweight Title fight in Kenya in 2018.

Ahead of her WBC Super Bantamweight title defence in 2018, SportPesa sponsored Zarika’s intensive training camp in Liverpool, England. There, she trained at the renowned 4 Corners Combat and Fitness Gym under the guidance of elite coaches and received mentorship from former WBC Cruiserweight Champion Tony Bellew. Bellew worked with Zarika to sharpen her technique and boost her confidence before the high-stakes bout against Mexican challenger Yamileth Mercado.

This investment paid off spectacularly. On 8 September 2018, Zarika successfully defended her WBC title at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, defeating Mercado via split decision in front of an ecstatic home crowd. The event, dubbed “Nairobi Fight Night”, was a landmark moment for Kenyan boxing and a testament to Zarika’s grit and SportPesa’s commitment to elevating local talent to the global stage.

Beyond the ring, SportPesa and Zarika worked together to inspire the next generation. In the lead-up to the fight, Zarika visited her childhood neighbourhood in Mathare, donating boxing equipment to the gym where her journey began.

“All they are doing and have done to better my career has been more than anyone or any institution has done since I began boxing 15 years ago and for that I will forever be grateful,” Zarika said of SportPesa’s sponsorship.

This was another example of SportPesa showcasing the transformative impact of investing in African athletes.