In a month defined by grit, discipline, and championship mentality, David Ssemujju Kavuma stood tallest, earning top honours in the boxing category at the Fortebet Real Stars Sports Monthly Awards.
The Ugandan pugilist was rewarded for successfully defending his WBO Asian Pacific and Japanese National welterweight titles—an achievement that not only reaffirmed his status in the ring but also underscored his growing influence on the international boxing stage.
On March 24, Ssemujju successfully defended his WBO Asia Pacific and Japanese welterweight titles for the second time, becoming the first African boxer to achieve this feat.
Fighting at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall, he battled Masayuki in a tough ten-round contest that ended in a draw, enough to retain his WBO title. His first defence came in August 2025, when he knocked out Kosei Nogami in the eighth round.
A former Uganda national team middleweight at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Ssemujju controlled the fight from the start, landing heavy shots that troubled his opponent. Backed by Ugandan fans, including Samuel Kavuma and his brother Isaac Ssebuufu, he increased the pressure and finished strongly.
His triumph placed him ahead of Farahat Manirola and Saiya Nsubuga in a highly competitive field.
Closest challenger Manilora defeated experienced Russian boxer Georgii Chelokhsaev, who had a record of 28 fights, 24 wins, and 16 knockouts prior to this match.
This landmark win serves as a turning point for Ugandan professional boxing, establishing Manirola as a rising talent on the international stage.
Representing Lukanga Boxing Club and the Ddamulira and Sons Foundation, the 21-year-old improved his record significantly with this victory.
Speaking after receiving the accolade via a phone call, the Japan-based Ssemujju reflected on the journey behind his success and the sacrifices required to remain at the top.
Courtesy photo
“I dedicate this award to my team and everyone who supports me. Defending my titles was not easy, but moments like this make it worthwhile,” he said.
“I thank God Almighty for this opportunity to defend my champion titles and for winning the Fortebet Real Star Award in Uganda. I also extend my gratitude to my management team at Chunich Boxing Gym for their role in this achievement.
This award has truly motivated me, showing that whatever we do across borders is valued by our country. I will continue representing Uganda 🇺🇬 on the international stage.
While reflecting on my professional journey, it has been challenging and difficult. Professional life has been very challenging as a foreigner in Japan, with difficulties such as the language barrier, different food, loneliness, and a new environment. However, as a sportsman with strong faith in pursuing my dreams, combined with consistent hard work, I have managed to overcome these challenges up to now.”
His victory did not come in isolation—it was the culmination of relentless preparation and tactical execution against elite opponents.
In edging Manirola, who recently made history as the first Ugandan boxer to win a professional bout on Russian soil, Ssemujju demonstrated both resilience and pedigree.
Nsubuga, fresh from being named the best boxer at the Intermediate Boxing Championship, completed the podium.
While boxing took centre stage through Ssemujju’s dominance, the awards also celebrated excellence across other disciplines.
Rally driver Hassan Alwi was recognised for his commanding win in the National Rally Championship opener, while long-distance star Jacob Kiplimo continued his remarkable run, setting a world half marathon record in Lisbon.
Held at Nanjing Restaurant, the ceremony brought together athletes, officials, and sponsors including Fortebet and Jude Colour Solutions, further cementing the awards’ role in recognising and motivating Uganda’s sporting elite.
