Why professional boxers are overshadowed by celebrities

What the report says

The Observer says Ugandan boxing has been drawing more public attention to celebrities than to professional fighters, with recent bouts involving singers, comedians and social media personalities. The article points to matches such as Rickman Manrick versus Grenade Official, Shakib Lutaaya’s fight in June 2026, the TikTok-linked bout between Mickey seems2funny and Dr Cephco, and comedian Shawa’s knockout win over content creator Chicken Chicken. It also mentions another upcoming celebrity matchup between Prima Kardashi and Zahara Toto.

According to the publisher, this trend has raised a question about why pro boxers have not generated similar visibility. The piece argues that one reason is the influence of disruptive groups at boxing events. It describes so-called “ghetto yuts” as rowdy youths who have allegedly attended fights in large numbers to rob or snatch valuables from spectators, creating fear among fans.

The article says such incidents have discouraged attendance and weakened support for the sport. It notes that some professional boxers, including Shadir Musa, have publicly criticized the hooliganism, but the author argues that stronger backing from the Uganda Boxing Federation would be needed to curb the problem. In broader terms, the report suggests that boxing’s popularity in Uganda may be shifting toward celebrity spectacle while professional athletes struggle for recognition and safety.