Rumors have ignited fresh debate in the Ugandan boxing scene after reports emerged that Emmanuel “Emma Spyder” Muwanguzi’s camp, led by Spyder Box Nation Promotions CEO Moses Kabanda, had pushed for a showdown between their fighter and lightweight contender Henry Oteba in a Super Featherweight ABU Regional Title fight scheduled for 10 rounds.

Muwanguzi, unbeaten with a record of 9 wins, 5 by knockout (KO ratio 55.56%), is regarded as one of Uganda’s brightest young boxing talents. Ranked 3rd nationally in the super featherweight division and 232nd worldwide, the southpaw has never boxed outside Uganda but has proven his class against foreign opponents from Tanzania who visited Kampala.

On the other hand, Oteba, fighting under Subene Promotion and Sparks Boxing Academy, has built a solid reputation of his own. With 9 bouts, 8 wins (5 KOs) and 1 loss, he boasts an impressive 62.5% KO ratio. His knockouts have all come before the third round, highlighting his punching power. Ranked 3rd in Uganda’s lightweight division and 416th globally, Oteba is considered another rising star. His only career blemish came in Lagos, Nigeria, where he lost a unanimous decision to Lawal Ahmed at the prestigious Balmoral Tenth, Federal Palace Hotel.

The Rumored Refusal

According to reports, when Emma Spyder’s team proposed the Super Featherweight title clash, Oteba’s management declined. Their position was clear: Oteba would not make super featherweight and would only accept the fight if Muwanguzi moved up to lightweight.

However, fans and insiders have interpreted the refusal differently. Many believe Oteba’s camp feared that their fighter could be outclassed by the sharp, relentless Muwanguzi, especially given that making weight adjustments is not unusual in modern boxing. Critics argue that Emma Spyder’s technical skills, unbeaten record, and high ring IQ might have posed too great a threat for Oteba.

Fans’ Reactions

Boxing enthusiasts on the local scene have been quick to react, with many accusing Oteba’s management of avoiding the fight to protect their boxer’s record. Others defended the decision, noting that fighters should never compromise their natural weight class, as it could jeopardize their performance.

Still, the narrative of “fear” has dominated the boxing circles. One fan put it bluntly:

“If Oteba truly believes in his power, then why not test it against Emma Spyder? Champions don’t choose comfort—they chase legacy.”

What’s Next?

Whether the fight will eventually be negotiated at lightweight remains to be seen. For now, the standoff has left Ugandan boxing fans divided, with some seeing it as a missed opportunity for a blockbuster clash, while others view it as a strategic move by Oteba’s camp.

One thing is certain—if Emmanuel “Emma Spyder” Muwanguzi and Henry Oteba ever share the ring, it will be one of the most anticipated matchups in Ugandan boxing, pitting two young lions against each other for supremacy.