The boxing fraternity in Uganda has been left puzzled and concerned following the shocking exclusion of national featherweight standout Isaac Masembe from the July African Boxing Union (ABU) rankings. The decision has triggered widespread debate, with many insiders and fans questioning the criteria used in compiling the continental list.

Masembe, who boasts an impressive professional record of 7 fights – 6 wins, 1 draw, and 6 knockouts, remains undefeated in his career. His performances have earned him not only local admiration but also a respectable global standing. He is currently ranked 2nd in the featherweight division in Uganda and 112th out of 1,799 worldwide with a 2.5-star rating on leading boxing databases.

Despite such credentials, the July ABU rankings only featured Sulaiman "Sula" Segawa among Ugandan featherweights — a move that has left many questioning the transparency and inclusivity of the rankings process.

“Masembe Deserved Better”

Boxing analysts argue that Masembe has done enough to earn a spot on the list, especially considering his activity in the ring and the quality of his knockouts.

"It's surprising and quite unfair. Masembe is one of the most technically gifted and hardest-hitting featherweights we have in East Africa right now," said a local boxing analyst who preferred anonymity. "He’s consistent, undefeated, and should at least be recognized at the continental level."

Fans have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction, calling for boxing authorities to lobby for better representation of deserving Ugandan fighters.

A Rising Star in the Shadows

Masembe, who gained national attention through his stellar amateur background and transition into a dominant professional, is regarded as one of the most promising boxing talents in Uganda today. His work ethic, ring IQ, and crowd-pleasing style have made him a fan favorite and a beacon of hope for the country’s boxing future.

Many believe his omission may be due to a lack of promotional backing or insufficient lobbying at the continental level — an issue that has affected several Ugandan fighters in the past.

What Next?

With pressure mounting on boxing federations and promoters, there is growing demand for a review of how boxers are represented and promoted at the ABU level. Stakeholders are now calling on Uganda's boxing bodies to take a more active role in pushing the profiles of top talents like Masembe to ensure they get the recognition they deserve.

For Masembe, the setback may be disappointing, but it is unlikely to derail his momentum. His fans and team remain optimistic that his talent will eventually force the continent and the world to take notice.

"The rankings may have skipped him this time, but Isaac Masembe is a champion in the making — with or without the ABU’s validation," one fan wrote online.

As Uganda continues to nurture its new generation of fighters, the question remains: How many more Isaacs will be overlooked before change comes?

Follow Nara News for more updates on Ugandan boxing and the stories behind the gloves.