Ruaraka Boxing Club (RBC) Founder and celebrated boxing legend and coach John Gicharu alias ‘Jonte’ has died aged 44 while receiving treatment at the Dandora Phase Two Hospital.
Making the announcement, the Kenya Boxing Federation (KBF) said Gicharu died on Monday, July 15, 2024.
“The boxing fraternity has lost an Icon, who passed on yesterday at Dandora Phase Two Hospital. John ‘Jonte’ Gicharu was the greatest community boxing coach of all time! Former amateur then turned professional boxer and served as Head Coach of Ruaraka Boxing Club until his demise.”
Gicharu founded the Ruaraka Boxing Club in 2015 to tap the talent of youth in Korogocho slum, after quitting professional boxing with a record of 15 wins (7 KOs), 10 losses and two draws.
His club is said to have churned out several good boxers such as Brian Omondi, Cavel Kusimba, Rohit Muluku and Chrispine Ochanda.
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Gicharu started his boxing journey in 1999 at Bangladesh Boxing Club in Kariobangi under coach Ben Addoh.
After three months, he was thrown onto the ring and went on to win on points against renowned journalist Muraya Kariuki.
He turned professional in 2005 while training at Palpal Gym in Pumwani Social Hall.
