The Uganda Professional Boxing Commission, in partnership with Big Strikers International Promotions, has unveiled plans for a high-profile boxing extravaganza to celebrate the re-election victory of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Dubbed the “Liberation Day Boxing Championship and Celebration of the Sitting President of Uganda,” the action-packed event is scheduled for March 6, 2026, at the scenic De-Rain Eco Beach Resort in Entebbe. The championship will be staged under the banner of the World Alliance Boxing Championship following several months without a major professional boxing showcase in the country.
A Fresh Chapter for Ugandan Boxing
Organizers describe this year’s competition as a new page in the promotion of boxing in Uganda, with more than 30 fighters confirmed on the card. The lineup features local and regional talent, including Tanzanian boxer Ali Mukonjani and Kenya’s Dalmo Kyalo.
An estimated Shs174 million has been budgeted for the event, which will take place along the lakeshores of Entebbe. Sponsorship has been secured from several organizations, including Fayaka Airways, IUEA University, Uhuru Restaurant, Queen’s Tech Suppliers Ltd, and Radio Sapientia, among others.
The gala is being spearheaded by Big Strikers International Promotions.
Resolving Longstanding Disputes
The event comes amid ongoing tensions between the Uganda Boxing Federation and the Uganda Professional Boxing Commission, whose protracted disagreements have reportedly stalled the growth of the sport.
Speaking during a press conference in Entebbe, stakeholders noted that infighting and administrative squabbles—compounded by government inaction and parallel structures—have frustrated the development of professional boxing in the country.
Salim Uhuru, a former boxer and current Kampala Mayor, emphasized that the central issue is not rivalry but collaboration.
“Boxing has had misunderstandings between professional and amateur ranks, but the real question is how we can jointly promote Ugandan boxing,” he said, urging both associations to prioritize the sport over personal interests.
Mr. Mwesigwa Emmanuel revealed that several letters have been written to the federation seeking dialogue and cooperation.
“We have held multiple meetings to iron out our grievances because professional boxing is a business, unlike amateur boxing,” he explained.
A Sport Seeking Revival
Professional boxer Latibu Muwonge Byakatonda, popularly known as “The Dancing Machine,” expressed frustration over the stagnation of the sport.
“Throughout 2025, we had no major event due to the persistent disputes within the federations. I personally have gone a long time without stepping into the ring,” he said.
Organizers maintain that professional boxing represents a significant opportunity for the country. According to Mr. Mwesigwa Emmanuel, professional boxing has strong political and institutional roots but has faced resistance from individuals reluctant to see the sport thrive.
Celebrating Uganda’s Boxing Heritage
Uganda boasts a proud boxing legacy, having produced legends such as John Mugabi, Ayub Kalule, and Godfrey Nyakana.
The upcoming championship will also showcase a new generation of fighters, including Junju Powers, Latibu Muwonge, Shafiq Kiwanuka, Okello Justine, Fahad Mayombo, Lt Aidin Muzei, and Brain Akankwasa.
As anticipation builds, stakeholders are hopeful that the March 6 showdown will not only celebrate the President’s electoral victory but also signal a renewed era of unity, professionalism, and growth for boxing in Uganda.
