Boxe : Tony Yoka change de nationalité sportive et opte pour un pays africain
This marks a major turning point in Tony Yoka's career. The 33-year-old boxer, Olympic super-heavyweight champion at the 2016 Rio Games with the French team, officially announced his change of sporting nationality on Monday. He will now represent the Democratic Republic of Congo on the international stage.
This decision, which has been in the works for several months, is part of a gradual rapprochement between the boxer and the Congolese sports authorities. After numerous discussions, joint initiatives, and strong signals from both sides, Tony Yoka decided to take the plunge. He now holds a Congolese professional license and aims to write a new chapter in his sporting history with the DRC.
The stated objective is clear: to lead the Congolese team to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, with the hope of winning another gold medal. The Rio Olympic champion intends to use his experience and international reputation to contribute to the development of Congolese boxing.
In a message posted on his social media, Tony Yoka did not hide his pride:
"I am proud to be able to showcase the Democratic Republic of Congo to the world, to honor my word and to pay tribute to Minister Didier Budimbu who trusts me in this adventure," he said, accompanying his remarks with a photo of his Congolese license.
The Congolese authorities are completely satisfied. The Minister of Sports, Didier Budimbu, confirmed the boxer's commitment during his recent visit to Kinshasa.
"A major boost for national boxing. Received by His Excellency the President of the Republic, Tony Yoka formalizes his commitment to the DRC," he stated.
Beyond the competition, the project aims to be ambitious and structuring: to carry the Congolese flag in international rings, to aim for Olympic gold, to promote the image of the country through sport and above all to train the next generation through the creation of a dedicated boxing academy.
“We applaud this heartfelt choice, a symbol of the rebirth of Congolese boxing on the international stage,” the government official concluded. With Tony Yoka as its spearhead, the DRC now harbors great ambitions in the noble art.
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