Matovu Ukasha, captain of the national boxing team “The Bombers” and reigning 67kg weight category champion, is set to make his return in Week 3 of Season 3 of the Uganda Boxing Champions League. The match will see Ukasha, who also works in a motor garage and represents Copab Boxing Club, face newcomer Mukwaya Edward from Kiwatule Boxing Club on June 22, 2024, at the NCS Arena in Lugogo.
Ukasha, who succeeded Joshua Tukamuhebwa as captain, has maintained his 67kg championship status following Kibira Owen’s departure from the weight class. Ukasha has an impressive track record, having represented Uganda at the elite level, securing a bronze medal in his debut at the 2023 Africa Boxing Championship in Cameroon. He also represented Uganda at the youth level during the 2018 Africa Youth Boxing Championship in Morocco. In the past two seasons of the Champions League, Ukasha remained undefeated until December 26, 2023, when he did not appear for the finals of Season 2 at the UMA Show Grounds, allowing Kibira Owen to claim the 67kg title.
During a media visit by NBS Sport ahead of his June 22 fight, Ukasha expressed confidence in his ability to defend his title. Responding to his opponent’s remarks, Ukasha stated:
“Ukasha is always ready because I was born ready. When it comes to boxing, it’s different for me. Even if I’m just out of bed and told to box, I will box.”
He further added:
“I deal in reality, not movies. You can’t watch movies and then come to me with your games. My opponent is a metal fabricator, but I am not made of metal. I have two personalities: human and metal. You have to first fight the metal before facing the human.”
Ukasha continued:
“People know that I am the best. It’s difficult to become number one, but it’s easy to stay number one. To those who think they can challenge me, this is different. Pastor, do you know why I have beards? Because I am like Jesus. You will see me like him, and Jesus is not white; he is Muganda and he is me.”
Addressing Mukwaya directly, Ukasha said:
“Pastor, you have many people who believe in you. That’s the mistake you made by joining boxing because pastors are known for having holy powers. Now, I don’t know how you’re going to face your people after I’ve beaten you.”
The upcoming bout promises to be an intense and exciting match as the experienced champion Matovu Ukasha faces off against the determined newcomer Mukwaya Edward.
