Uganda’s boxing fraternity is mourning the passing of John “The Matador” Munduga, one of the nation’s most gifted pugilists of the late 1970s and 1980s, who died on Saturday, September 13, 2025, aged 64.

Born on January 15, 1961 in Naguru near Kampala, Munduga rose from humble beginnings at the Naguru Community Centre to become captain of the Uganda national boxing team, representing the country at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Known for his lean build, towering height of over six feet, and dazzling skill in the lighter divisions, he was widely regarded as one of the most naturally talented fighters Uganda has ever produced.

Amateur Glory

Munduga’s amateur career was decorated with numerous highlights. He was a schoolboy champion by age 11, a bronze medalist at Thailand’s King’s Cup, and a gold medalist at the prestigious Feliks Stamm Memorial Invitational in Warsaw in 1978—where he was the only Ugandan victor. He also represented Uganda at the All-Africa Games in Algiers (1978) and the Moscow Olympics (1980), where he advanced to the second round.

Professional Career

Turning professional in Germany in 1981, Munduga built a fearsome record, remaining undefeated in his first 24 fights, 18 of them by knockout. He later moved to the United States, where he fought under legendary manager Mickey Duff alongside fellow Ugandan great John “The Beast” Mugabi.

Munduga rose as high as sixth in the WBC world rankings, earning a reputation for his aggressive style and high knockout ratio. His most famous bout came in 1986 against Mark Breland, the 1984 Olympic gold medalist and future WBA world champion. Though knocked out in the sixth round, Munduga’s bravery and skill earned him lasting recognition on the global stage.

He would eventually retire in 1989 with a professional record of 25 wins (18 KOs) and 5 losses, all by knockout. His decline mirrored that of many African greats whose careers were derailed after brutal defeats, but his impact on Ugandan boxing remained indelible.

Life After the Ring

Returning home, Munduga became a mentor and coach, training future generations at Kololo High School in Kampala. In 2000, he served as the national coach of Rwanda’s boxing team, further cementing his influence on the region’s boxing development.

Renowned coach Grace Sseruwagi, who discovered and nurtured him, once described Munduga as “the most talented boxer I have ever coached.”

Funeral Arrangements

A prayer service and mass will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at St. Jude Church in Naguru at 10:00 AM. Thereafter, the body will be taken to Koboko District, the ancestral home of the Lugbara legend, for burial on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

Legacy

Though he never won a world title, John Munduga will be remembered as a trailblazer, a national captain, and one of Uganda’s most skillful and courageous boxers. His story mirrors the golden era of Ugandan boxing and stands as an inspiration to every young fighter dreaming of greatness.