The African Boxing Union (ABU) has released its September 2025 rankings, and while Uganda continues to maintain a strong presence on the continental list, questions still linger about transparency and fairness—particularly in the super featherweight category.

Bob Turyatemba Finally Joins the ABU Rankings

After being omitted in August, Bob Turyatemba has finally earned his place in the ABU rankings, a development welcomed by many within the Ugandan boxing community. The welterweight standout, who was previously ranked 3rd nationally (3/25) and 158th worldwide (158/2,603), now receives the continental recognition many believed he already deserved.

Turyatemba’s inclusion marks a step forward for Uganda’s representation in the ABU ratings, following weeks of debate and media pressure from local boxing promoters and analysts who questioned the criteria behind the August list.

 Super Featherweight Rankings Stir New Controversy

While Turyatemba’s addition brings relief, Uganda’s super featherweight division remains clouded in controversy.

According to the latest figures, Emmanuel Muwanguzi—ranked only 3rd nationally (3/17) and 239th worldwide (239/2,050)—appears in the ABU top 15, sitting at 12th place in Africa.

However, Uganda’s top two fighters in that same division—Musuza Hassan and Joshua Tusingwire—are nowhere to be seen in the ABU list despite holding significantly higher positions both domestically and globally:

• Musuza Hassan – Ranked 1/17 in Uganda and 224/2,050 worldwide
•  Joshua Tusingwire – Ranked 2/17 in Uganda and 231/2,050 worldwide

This development has reignited debate among boxing fans and insiders, who question how a boxer ranked third nationally can appear on the continental list ahead of the country’s top two in the same category.

 Uganda’s Boxing Progress – And the Questions That Remain

Uganda’s strong footprint across several weight classes continues to solidify its reputation as one of Africa’s most promising boxing nations. Fighters like Shadir Musa Bwogi, Sulaiman Segawa, David Ssemejju, and Stanley Mugerwa continue to represent the country with distinction.

Yet, the inconsistency in rankings—especially at super featherweight—has sparked renewed calls for clarity and accountability in ABU’s evaluation system.

Promoters and trainers argue that rankings should be based on merit, recent activity, and verified performance rather than politics or affiliations.

 Voices from the Boxing Community

Local fans have taken to social media to express both pride and concern. While many celebrated Turyatemba’s recognition, others voiced frustration over what they describe as “selective recognition” that fails to reflect Uganda’s true talent order.

As one promoter commented:

“We are proud to see Bob finally listed, but the ABU must explain how our number one and two in super featherweight are invisible while number three is shining. It’s discouraging to hardworking boxers.”

 The Road Ahead

With several Ugandan fighters now eyeing regional title opportunities, these rankings carry significant implications for future matchups and promotional deals.

The ABU’s October 2025 update will be closely watched to see whether the inconsistencies in the super featherweight division are addressed—or whether Uganda’s top prospects continue to fight for continental recognition both inside and outside the ring.