MTN Arena Erupts As Kanaabi Shines In Week 7 Of Boxing Champions League –ONC’s Namyalo Rewards Fighters, Rallies Youth For Museveni 2026

By Frank Kamuntu

The MTN Arena Lugogo was ablaze with excitement on Saturday, July 26, as the Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) hosted Week 7 of the Boxing Champions League Season IV, drawing thousands of spectators eager to witness 25 high-impact bouts, culminating in a show-stopping main event.

The headline clash featured Alex Kanaabi, 23, of KCCA Boxing Club, who delivered a commanding performance to defeat Nerrick “Bulabe” Tumusiime of Kololo High School Boxing Club via a unanimous 5–0 decision. The crowd roared with every punch, with both VIPs and fans in the terraces rising to their feet in admiration of the fierce talent on display.

Namyalo Rewards Passion & Purpose

Chief Guest Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and head of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), commended both fighters for their discipline and determination. She awarded Kanaabi USD 600 in cash and surprised the runner-up Bulabe with UGX 1.5 million and a full sponsorship of his third-term school fees at Kololo High School, where he is currently in Senior Five.

“This is the spirit we need — passion, discipline, and purpose. These Bazzukulu are the future of Uganda’s sport and leadership,” she said to loud applause.

In a powerful post-fight address, Namyalo described the growing popularity of boxing among youth as a living example of Musevenomics — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s grassroots-centered economic philosophy built on wealth creation, skill-building, and empowerment.

“Boxing is more than a game — it’s a livelihood. From ghettos to global arenas, we must uplift these youth through structured support. This is Musevenomics at work,” she said.

She also used the platform to mobilize youth (Bazzukulu) across the country to rally behind President Museveni ahead of the 2026 elections.

“Come 2026, we must return Jajja Museveni to continue building a stable and prosperous Uganda. Support the mission,” she urged.

UBF President Salutes ONC Support

Uganda Boxing Federation President Moses Muhangi lauded Namyalo’s continued backing, noting that ONC’s involvement is transforming boxing in Uganda.

“Chief Muzzukulu Namyalo has shown unmatched commitment to our boxing agenda. Her presence inspires athletes and reminds fans that boxing matters,” Muhangi said.

He cautioned boxers and supporters to maintain discipline both in and out of the ring, warning that indiscipline could derail the progress made in professionalizing the sport.

Fight Night Highlights:

• Alex Kanaabi (KCCA) def. Nerrick Bulabe (Kololo High) – 5:0
• Edward Mukwaya (Kiwatule) def. Juma Jjuko (Kololo High) – KO, 2nd Round
• Bashir Sserugo (Lukanga) def. William Ssegawa (Zebra) – 4:3
• Nkurunziza Brian (Kololo) def. John Musisi (Katwe) – 4:3
• John Ssemugayire (Katabi) def. Yasin Kintu (Ssaku) – 5:0
• Nakato Swabura (Lukanga) def. Nakabira Peace (Zebra) – 5:0

The Boxing Champions League continues to be a powerful launchpad for underprivileged and ghetto-based fighters, bridging sport, empowerment, and national transformation.