Dorchester boxer Gilbert Kabamba mounts bid for 2028 Olympic team
Dorchester resident Gilbert “Tonka” Kabamba is mounting a bid for the 2028 U.S. Olympic boxing team, an achievement that would mark the first time a Massachusetts man has reached the Olympic squad since 1932. Kabamba, a 25-year-old super heavyweight, recently secured a gold medal at the Pan American Championships in Mexico.
Rapid transition from football to the ring
Kabamba’s athletic trajectory shifted significantly in 2021. After arriving in the United States from a refugee camp in Uganda in November 2013, he initially pursued football. During his time at Everett High School, he played alongside future NFL players Mike Sainristil and Isaiah Likely, eventually earning a scholarship to Merrimack College. His football career stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a period of personal instability. While training for a potential move to junior college football, a chance encounter with a stranger on Carson Beach redirected him toward the Waymaker Boxing gym on Freeport Street, as reported by WBUR News.
Although Kabamba was initially reluctant to pursue boxing, he eventually committed to the sport under the guidance of coach Martin Grealish. His development has been swift, characterized by a transition from novice status to winning the New England Golden Gloves in 2022, 2023, and 2024. He also claimed victory at the 2024 National Golden Gloves.
Building toward the 2028 Olympic cycle
The path to Los Angeles remains the primary objective. Kabamba’s recent performance in Mexico, where he defeated opponents from Cuba, Brazil, and Colombia, provided his first experience fighting without headgear. According to his head coach, Mark DeLuca, Kabamba’s athletic profile is comparable to a young Evander Holyfield, noting his stature at 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds. DeLuca suggests that at 25, Kabamba has not yet reached his physical peak, which typically occurs for heavyweights in their early 30s.
The competitive schedule is intensifying. Kabamba has been selected by USA Boxing to travel to Hungary for two bouts scheduled for November 14. This selection requires him to report to the Team USA training facility in Colorado Springs for preparation. Looking ahead, the critical qualification window for the 2028 Olympic Games is set for 2027.
Bobby Russo identifies Kabamba as a significant prospect
Bobby Russo, the national Golden Gloves president and New England Golden Gloves executive director, identifies Kabamba as a significant prospect who has already reached the top tier of national competition.
Kabamba, who describes himself as a student of the sport, continues to train twice daily at Waymaker Boxing. He remains focused on the immediate requirements of his upcoming bouts in Hungary as he works to secure his position for the 2027 qualifiers.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.