Renowned international broadcaster and YouTuber Ade Oladipo has confirmed his alignment with Kalakoda Promotions and TV47, as the partners announced a landmark multi-year expansion deal valued at KSh1 billion.
The partnership confirms 11 Friday Fight Nights to be broadcast regionally and internationally throughout 2026, followed by 12 monthly events from 2027 onwards, positioning the format as one of the most consistent and sustainable boxing series globally. Alongside the Friday Fight Night format, Kalakoda will concurrently launch Young Lions, a weekly grassroots fight night showcasing the best of Kenya’s emerging talent, amounting to over 60 confirmed shows across the country this year.
The next event is scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026, at Masshouse, Nairobi, continuing the momentum following Kalakoda’s successful East African debut last year.
Oladipo’s involvement marks a significant milestone for African boxing. Having hosted and covered some of the world’s biggest boxing events, including Fury vs. Usyk and Joshua vs. Dubois, his presence brings elite experience and international insight to the region.
Speaking on the partnership, Ade Oladipo, DAZN Boxing lead presenter, said: “I’ve worked on some of the biggest nights in boxing, in front of crowds of up to 90,000 people, and I can honestly say the atmosphere in Nairobi during Kalakoda’s last event was extraordinary. This really showcased the vibrant spirit and passion for boxing in Africa.”
The Friday Fight Nights format features a high-level international card structure, bringing together fighters from the UK and across Africa, alongside top Kenyan talents. The series blends established legends, rising prospects and high-level production, with the aim of elevating boxing in East Africa.
Highlighting the continent’s potential, Oladipo added: “The potential and talent in Africa are immense, and when given the right opportunities and support, African fighters can excel on the international stage and redefine the landscape of professional boxing worldwide.”
For fighters across the continent, the TV47–Kalakoda partnership promises a rare opportunity: regular competition, global broadcast exposure, and a clear pathway to international rankings and title contention. With the added involvement of experienced stakeholders like Oladipo, the platform is increasingly viewed as a launchpad for both emerging regional prospects and established fighters pursuing international stardom.
Reuben Ndolo, President of the Kenya Professional Boxing Commission, welcomed the long-term investment, saying: “We are pleased to see promoters and broadcasters making long-term investments in the Kenyan market, as we continue to professionalize and internationalize Kenyan boxing. Their presence will enhance opportunities for our athletes and elevate the sport in our country.”
Former WBC world champion Fatuma Zarika, who secured a unanimous decision victory at the Friday Fight Nights debut, underscored the platform’s impact.
“The production level was on par with major U.S. shows. Fighting at home has a unique energy and passion that’s hard to match. The crowd was incredible, and fighting in front of my people gave me extra motivation and pride.”
Looking ahead to a busy year of production and content, Mwenda Njoka, CEO of Cape Media, said: “We’re on a mission to make 2026 the defining year when Kenyan boxing reclaims its greatness. We will deliver unforgettable nights that put Kenya back on the global boxing map and truly define TV47 as the Home of Professional Boxing.”
As Kalakoda Promotions, TV47 and Ade Oladipo look ahead to 2026 and beyond, Friday Fight Nights is evolving into more than a boxing format, emerging as Africa’s definitive fight-night platform with global relevance.
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