adminLodge in Beitbridge on Saturday night.
Jussila, who is also Europe’s reigning champion, came out the victor after technically knocking out Zimbabwe’s veteran fighter Bernard “The Jet” Roben in the fifth round.
The Finnish athlete made his intentions of claiming the title clear from the first round when Roben had a hard time containing a barrage of kicks
Roben was fired up in the second and third rounds where he dispatched his kicks with precision at lightning speed.
He was, however, defeated due to lack of endurance as Jussila came back attacking in the fourth and fifth rounds.
Roben fell down three times in the fifth round resulting in him being technically knocked out by the visitor.
Several athletes from Pakistan and New Zealand failed to make it to Beitbridge resulting in the organisers holding four bouts, with Jussila and Roben taking part in the main event.
In the first match, Raban Mutunzi won by a majority decision against Mike Munodawafa.
Harare-based Nicholas Kurima won by 82 points against Isaac Mhlanga of Beitbridge who garnered 64 points.
Forget Murazu beat Lloyd Chimundanda by a margin of 80-60 points.
In a post-match interview, Jussila said the event had been well coordinated, adding that he would have loved to fight more matches.
It was for the second time the Finn had been to this country after gracing a similar event in August this year.
Jussila said he was willing to work together with the kicking boxing association of Zimbabwe in improving kick boxing standards across the country.
“The event was well organised and I believe I won because of experience though Roben gave me a good fight.
“I hope to work with him and the kick boxing association of Zimbabwe in improving the game’s standards. I am in this game for fun and to be honest with you, Zimbabwe is my second home after Europe, the people here are very co-operative,” he said.
Zimbabwe kick boxing boss, Tony Kamangira, said the event provided a learning experience for local fighters.
“We need more on our techniques as a country and are working hard to spread the sport across the country.
“Currently we have eight provinces which are active in the sport. I would also like to commend our athletes for their discipline.
“We will hold a Unity Cup championship in the first week of December where we will have athletes from Nigeria and Pakistan. Invitations have been sent out and we are looking forward to a good
response from these countries. Preparations are underway and we yet to decide on a venue but hopefully we will use the Harare Girls High which is our home,” he said.
Online Reporter