The 2026 Uganda boxing champions league returned with massive crowds at the Lugogo arena on Saturday.
Over 20 bouts were on the card with para-boxing and Ukasha Matovu’s massive return after over a year in sabbatical lighting up the fight night.
The crowd-pulling action saw the former national team captain Ukasha stopping Isaac Kasasa in the third round of the five.
“This is just the beginning and I was facing a junior. Had he insisted to go all five rounds, he would be in hospital,” noted Matovu.
The night was graced by high-profile personalities including among others Odrek Rwabwogo – chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development, who is also a First son-in law, Makindye East Member of parliament Haji Ali Kasirye Mulyanyama and musician Mudra.
According to the Uganda boxing federation president Moses Muhangi, hosting such high-profile personnel including members of the first family is a vote of confidence in the sport and the leadership.
“Mr Rwabogo spent over two hours with us without army security. This shows trust in a sport once associated with violence. This is what we work towards- brining the sport to the elite from the ghetto because the sign the chques that will help the ghetto talents rise,” noted Muhangi.
There was also an inaugural para-boxing exhibition as Najibu sultan beat Kizza Shafik as Uganda boxing federation continues to walk the journey of inclusiveness.
The two para-boxers thanked Uganda boxing federation for grating them a platform to showcase their skills.
“I urge people with disability not to sit on their talents. I Personally want to go all out and become an international champion,” remarked Sultan.
Muhangi said that the federation will provide a platform for every interest person with disability through the Uganda para-boxing association.
“This shows how inclusive our sport of boxing is. Students, men and women take part as well as people with disability. It is why we need more government support to unearth such talents,” Muhangi reamrked.
On the same night, three national team boxers heading to Glasgow games next month, including Emily Nakalema, Khemis Ibrahim and Aziz Ringo won on the night.
Nakalema revealed that she found with caution- mindful of the Glasgow games.
