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Millions of Afghans have watched a German-born Afghan win the country's first professional men's boxing match in the capital Kabul.
Hamid Rahimi beat Tanzanian Said Mbelwa for the World Boxing Organisation Intercontinental middleweight belt.
The match, which would have been banned under Taliban rule,took place amid tight security in the capital.
After the fight, Mr Rahimi described the win as a fresh beginning for the country.
"Today it's a start," he said.
"This belt is not mine, this belt is Afghanistan's, it's yours. I love you."
The match was broadcast live, with millions of Afghans across the country reportedly tuning in to watch.
Prominent Afghan figures, including MPs and deputy ministers, watched the fight live at the venue.
Organisers dubbed the bout a"Fight 4 Peace" and said it was being hosted to make a statement of freedom to take part in sport in a country blighted by war and militancy for decades.
The Taliban banned boxing towards the end of their rule.
http://m.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-20137782
Hamid Rahimi beat Tanzanian Said Mbelwa for the World Boxing Organisation Intercontinental middleweight belt.
The match, which would have been banned under Taliban rule,took place amid tight security in the capital.
After the fight, Mr Rahimi described the win as a fresh beginning for the country.
"Today it's a start," he said.
"This belt is not mine, this belt is Afghanistan's, it's yours. I love you."
The match was broadcast live, with millions of Afghans across the country reportedly tuning in to watch.
Prominent Afghan figures, including MPs and deputy ministers, watched the fight live at the venue.
Organisers dubbed the bout a"Fight 4 Peace" and said it was being hosted to make a statement of freedom to take part in sport in a country blighted by war and militancy for decades.
The Taliban banned boxing towards the end of their rule.
http://m.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-20137782