Magic at the Palace - Unbeaten heavyweight star José Kadima claims WBC Africa title with first-round KO

José Kadima snags the WBC Africa Heavyweight Title with spectacular KO

Undefeated South African heavyweight José Kadima (9-0, 7 KOs) confirmed he’s a big hit, with a blockbuster first-round knockout victory over Uganda’s Herbert Matovu (9-2, 8 KOs) in the main event of the “Magic At The Palace” card in Johannesburg.

From the opening bell, the Congolese Kadima came out determined to establish his pathfinder jab. After just 36 seconds on the clock, he reinforced it, landed a cannonade combination that knocked the Ugandan Matovu out.

With this impactful, lightning victory, Kadima improved his professional record to 9-0 with 7 knockouts and claimed the WBC Africa Heavyweight Title , a regional championship that will propel him up the rankings.

The triumph marks an important step in the South African’s career as he continues to establish himself as one of the most promising rising stars in African heavyweight boxing.

He has knocked out all but two opponents and has defeated three winning fighters in a row. Since graduating from four and six-rounders, Kadima has defeated Mateus Munhoz Da Penha (7-1-2) on points, and KO'd Johnny Muller (23-11-2) and Herbert Matovu, with a combined record of 39-13, all this year in 2026.

The Democratic Republic of Congo star has all nine fights in South Africa, but will soon be drawing attention around the world as he enters the WBC World rankings in July.