Boxing is poised to reclaim its former glory in Ivory Coast. On June 10, 2026 , the Abidjan Exhibition Center will host "The Dream 1," an unprecedented international boxing gala. The highlight of the evening? The explosive duel between national icon Michel Soro and the formidable Tanzanian Hassan Mwakinyo .

The event was officially launched on March 13 at the Tiama Hotel, under the impetus of the promoter Tidiane Touré , surrounded for the occasion by federal authorities and officials from the Exhibition Park.

The return of the prodigal son

For Michel Soro, this fight is much more than just a step in his career: it's a pilgrimage. After having fought in rings all over the world, the Ivorian champion will finally box in front of his home crowd.

"He fought on every continent, but he lacked the essential: representing his country at home," Tidiane Touré emphasized.

This choice of Abidjan is not accidental. The promoter praised the rapid modernization of Ivorian infrastructure, making the country a stronghold capable of hosting world-class shows.

The three pillars of "The Dream 1"

The project led by Tidiane Touré goes beyond the sporting realm to encompass a societal vision:

1. Celebrating excellence: Honoring Michel Soro's journey of resilience.
2. Inspiring youth: Showing young African talents that success is within reach.
3. To shine internationally: To position Ivory Coast as the sporting showcase of the sub-region.

A rich and international map

Before the final showdown, the ring will showcase the next generation of African boxers and high-profile international bouts:

1. African clashes: Ivorian Kassi Daniel will face a Nigerian opponent (Welters), while Gazo (Ivorian) will challenge a Cameroonian (Super-Lightweight).
2. Fiery duel: Anzoumana Diarra (Ivory Coast) will face off against Congolese Jean Christ Otondo .
3. France-Mexico poster: A prestigious Super-Welter fight will pit the reigning European champion against a renowned Mexican puncher.

The Main Event: Soro vs Mwakinyo

This is the moment the whole country has been waiting for. A 12-round Middleweight duel.

Boxer	Rankings	Style
Michel Soro (CIV)	38 wins (27 by KO), 4 losses	Experience and technique
Hassan Mwakinyo (TAN)	25 wins (18 KOs)	Power and passion

"I cannot afford to lose at home," insisted Michel Soro, visibly moved. His ambition is clear: to give Ivory Coast its first ever world championship title.

An Exhibition Park ready for the show

Valery Gissat , Director General of the Exhibition Center, was delighted to see its "extraordinary" infrastructure come alive for such an event. For his part, Arthur Boa , president of the Ivorian Boxing Federation (FIB), sees this gala as the essential driving force for the long-term revitalization of the sport in the country.