The 2025 National Open Boxing Championship gets underway today at the Lugogo Indoor Arena, promising intense matchups as elite fighters battle for national supremacy.
Running up to 9th March from 11 AM to 8 PM daily, the tournament serves as a crucial pathway for boxers seeking to return to or establish themselves in the prestigious Uganda Boxing Champions League.
Among the star attractions is Eliphaz Mbaziira, the 2023 featherweight silver medalist, who is making a long-awaited return after a year of inactivity.
Having struggled with relegation and missing previous comeback opportunities, the Nakawa Boxing Club fighter is now determined to reclaim his place in the league.
Mbaziira, who has been training at Brawn Boxing Club under coach Dickson Muhiirwe, will compete in the 63.5kg division after a failed attempt to maintain featherweight.
His journey back won’t be easy, as he faces tough competition from experienced fighters like Jaffar Onen and Eddie Kimera, both relegated from the 2024 league.
Day One of the championship features several exciting clashes, with the Elite Light 60kg category opening the action.
Wasswa Ssali from Lukanga BC will face off against Yesu Akwagala’s Muyanja Akram in a much-anticipated bout.
Another 60kg contest will see Mugisha Patrick go head-to-head with Senoga Stuart in a battle of skill and endurance.
In the Elite Welter 63.5kg division, Masembe Elvis of Godfather BC squares off against Lukanga BC’s Farahat Maniola, while Eastcoast BC’s Lubega Reagan takes on Zebra BC’s Senyonga Robert in another explosive contest.
The action in the 67kg category will see Bugembe Richard battling Adinan Yasin, while middleweight fighters Owino John (UPDF BC) and Kasirye Alvin (Kololo High BC) promise a high-energy encounter.
With seasoned fighters looking to reassert their dominance and emerging talents eager to prove themselves, the National Open Boxing Championship is set to deliver exciting action.