Isaac Junior wins Super Welterweight title, defeating Abas Sseguya.
Ssenyange overcomes injury, honors his father’s boxing legacy.
Victory marks Ssenyange’s fourth consecutive win since turning professional.
Zahara Nandawula also shines, defeating Flavia Babirye.
In a night of high drama and athletic prowess, Isaac Ssenyange Junior clinched his first National Title in the Super Welterweight category, defeating Abas Sseguya in a gripping ten-round bout at the newly renovated Nakivubo Stadium on Saturday. This victory is not just a personal achievement for Ssenyange but a significant milestone for Ugandan boxing.
Legacy of a Champion
Isaac Junior, the son of the late and legendary boxer Zebra Mando Ssenyange, demonstrated his inherited prowess in the ring. From the opening bell, Ssenyange took control, showcasing a composed demeanor and strategic prowess that kept his opponent on the defensive. His precise left hooks repeatedly penetrated Sseguya’s guard, setting the tone for the match.
“My father’s legacy is a great inspiration,” Ssenyange said. “I fight not just for myself but to honor his memory and contribute to the sport he loved.”
Despite his dominance, Ssenyange faced challenges in the later rounds due to a pre-existing injury. This setback tested his resilience and strategic thinking. “I felt some pain in one of the injuries I had before the fight, and that disturbed me in the later stages. Otherwise, I could have finished him a bit earlier,” Ssenyange remarked. His ability to push through the pain and secure a win speaks volumes about his determination and skill.
This victory not only earned him the National Super Welterweight title, previously vacant after being stripped from Junju Power, but also solidified his position as a rising star in professional boxing. This win marks his fourth consecutive victory since turning professional in December last year, with previous wins including knockouts against Tanzania’s Alibaba Talimo and Egypt’s Ibrahim Kandel and Ramy Mahidi.
The Path Forward
For Sseguya, this defeat is a setback but not the end of his journey. With only his second career loss, the first being against Farahat Manirola, Sseguya remains determined. “He has been the better fighter today, but it has not ended here. I will meet him again next time. I guess he felt the power,” Sseguya commented, promising a future rematch.
A Night of Highlights
The evening was not solely about the main event. Another standout performance came from Zahara Nandawula, who defeated Flavia Babirye in an exhilarating match. Nandawula’s victory added to the night’s excitement and showcased the depth of talent in Ugandan boxing.
The Significance of Nakivubo Stadium
The refurbished Nakivubo Stadium provided a fitting backdrop for this historic night. Its modern facilities and vibrant atmosphere reflect the growth and renewed interest in boxing and sports in Uganda. The stadium, once a symbol of Uganda’s sports heritage, has been revitalized to nurture future talents and host significant events.
Isaac Ssenyange Junior’s victory marks the dawn of a new era in Ugandan boxing. As he continues to rise through the ranks, his journey will inspire upcoming boxers and reignite passion for the sport in the country. His story is a testament to the power of legacy, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Key Moments
Isaac Ssenyange Junior dominated the fight early with precise left hooks, keeping Abas Sseguya on the defensive.
Despite a pre-existing injury affecting his performance later, Ssenyange’s early damage secured his eventual victory.
Sseguya acknowledged Ssenyange’s superiority but vowed to seek a rematch and prove his own strength.
