Promising heavyweight boxer Shafik Kiwanuka turns pro
Sam Buchanan and Shafik Kiwanuka pictured during the press conference at Bukasa where boxing promotion group. Photo by Ismail Kezaala
KAMPALA. The Irish pro ranks have welcomed the addition of a fighter to the heavier classes.
Boxing promotions company, Big Strikers confirmed that Shafik Kiwanuka is to turn professional.
On Wednesday, they welcomed city businessman Sam Buchanan as their new chairman.
The 23-year-old has signed an undisclosed deal following a short-but-successful amateur career.
Boxing out of the Kampala Boxing Club, the 6’5 towering boxer fought in the heavyweight category for three years, winning the national open title in 2016 and although he missed the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia, he has overshadowed his challengers with a powerful right punch that has earned him the name ‘Killing Machine’.
As well as this, the puncher who tried his talent with Express FC as a striker in 2014, was a finalist in the Irish Open in 2015.
Abdu Tebazalwa, who trained him in the amateurs, will remain in Kiwanuka’s corner and the former All Africa gold medallist intends to help the puncher rule the heavyweight division.
“He is a fiercely ambitious young man that is eager to learn every day, which is vital to make it in this sport. His commitment shows how dedicated he is to becoming a star, and I can’t wait to see his journey get underway,” Tebazalwa said.
The Ugandan heavyweight division is lacking talent at present, with David Ayiti, Denis Mulindwa, Adam Nsereko, Badru Nyombi, Emma Kyambadde and Adam Nsereko, among others, having tasted his venomous punches.
Kiwanuka will make his debut on the NRM Liberation Day on January 26 next year against Kenyan opponent Obadiah Mwangi.
