Knockout victory puts Kakande in line for Commonwealth title

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Germany-based Ugandan boxer Muzamir ‘The Real King Kong’ Kakande delivered one of his finest career performances when he ferociously knocked out Great Britain’s rising star, Dan Toward.

On a night that also saw former World Boxing Association (WBA) middleweight champion Chris Eubank Jr’s cousin, Harlem Eubank, claim the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Intercontinental welterweight title, Kakande stood tall.

The two fighters clashed at the packed Brighton Sussex Centre Arena in London, competing in a super welterweight contest. Kakande, who secured Uganda’s last boxing gold medal in a competitive championship back in 2017, proved to be too good, too quick, too slick, and too powerful for Toward, who was born in Seagulls.

By the fifth round of this eight-round thriller, Kakande had already sealed his victory. His devastating right overhand hook sent Toward crashing to the canvas, and the referee, Bernard Oyet, stepped in to prevent further damage to the Brit.

Germany-based Ugandan boxer Muzamir ‘The Real King Kong’ Kakande delivered one of his finest career performances when he ferociously knocked out Great Britain’s rising star, Dan Toward. (Courtesy photo)

This victory means that Kakande, who recently signed with the London-based promotion company, Peacock Boxing, is now eligible to challenge for the British Commonwealth Super Welterweight title.

“I give the glory to the Almighty Allah. What a way to celebrate Ramadhan with such a sweet victory,” an overwhelmed Kakande said.

“With Toward finished, my focus is now to clinch the Commonwealth title before moving on to chase other belts, including the WBC, WBA, and IBF continental and world titles.”

Kakande’s new manager, Leon Sudbury, also based in London, is optimistic that his fighter has all the tools to become a world champion.

“Kakande is fearless and hardworking. These are key factors that make a good fighter. He has everything it takes to punch his way to the top.”

Latif Walugembe, the former UPDF and national boxing team coach who now trains Kakande in Germany, credited the victory to sticking to their game plan.

This was Kakande’s eleventh fight since turning professional in 2021. Of his eleven bouts, the 2017 Brazzaville Africa welterweight gold medallist has won nine, with six knockouts, and has suffered one loss and one draw.