Friends of Boxing Launches Initiative, Sparks Controversy with Uganda Boxing Federation

Friends of Boxing (FOB), a non-profit organization, is aiming to revolutionize Ugandan boxing through a new two-year partnership with the Uganda Professional Boxing Commission (UPBC). The initiative seeks to provide boxers with essential support, including better training, sponsorship, and increased visibility, addressing long-standing issues of underfunding and lack of recognition.

At the forefront of FOB’s plans is the introduction of the FOB Championship Belt, which will offer significant prize money: Shs6 million for the winner and Shs2.5 million for the runner-up across all weight divisions. This promise of substantial financial reward has generated considerable excitement among boxers, many of whom have expressed dismay at the meager purses typically offered for fights.

“We want to set up proper structures. A Ugandan boxer should expect support, sponsorship, good trainers and coaches, and the limelight for their work,” stated Frank Lulinda, FOB’s head of marketing and development. The organization also plans to enhance boxers’ professional lives by offering financial literacy and health insurance, according to UPBC president Eddie Bazira.

Despite the positive reception from many boxers and promoters who see this as a vital step forward, the Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) has reacted with hostility. UBF president Moses Muhangi has declared FOB an “enemy of boxing” and threatened boxers, coaches, and officials associated with FOB with bans. UBF claims sole authority over boxing in Uganda and considers FOB’s partnership with UPBC a violation of their mandate, further demanding clearance from UBF for any boxing events.

The National Council of Sports (NCS) has recognized UBF as the primary governing body, adding weight to UBF’s stance. However, UPBC is challenging the NCS letter, describing it as misleading and undermining attempts to unify boxing governance as per the National Sports Act, 2023. UPBC officials assure participants that attending FOB events is not a crime and that individuals will not face repercussions.

This conflict raises critical questions for Ugandan boxers, who may be forced to choose between vital support from FOB and the risk of being sidelined by the UBF. The situation highlights the deep-seated challenges and internal politics within Ugandan boxing, even as FOB attempts to introduce much-needed reform and investment.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/boxing/friends-of-boxing-throws-chaos-into-the-ring-5505472