Emily Nakalema asserted her supremacy in the welterweight division of women's boxing by emerging victorious against the Africa Boxing silver medallist Erina Namutebi.
This display of dominance unfolded during the Uganda Boxing Federation elimination bouts on August 13 at Club Oligatto in Kampala, a crucial event leading to the 2023 Dakar Olympics Qualifiers.
The spotlight of the welterweight competition showcased two prominent contenders from the national team: Emily Nakalema and Erina Namutebi.
Both athletes distinguished themselves as medalists in the recently concluded Africa Elite Men's and Women's Boxing Championships in Yaounde, Cameroon.
Nakalema secured a bronze medal in the welterweight category, while Namutebi triumphed with a silver medal in the light welterweight division.
Buoyed by her vast experince and previous victory over Namutebi, Nakalema continued her winning streak by notching two consecutive wins.
In their prior encounter, Nakalema secured a narrow 3:2 decision in a closely contested match that left Namutebi discontented with the judges' verdict.
However, during the elimination bout, Nakalema unleashed her full prowess.
She took command of the proceedings with an unparalleled hunger to secure a return to the Dakar Olympics Qualifiers, seeking to surpass her previous campaign that had halted in the semi-finals.
Employing an assertive and dominant strategy, Nakalema left minimal room for her opponent to recover or mount a counterattack. Her aggression proved overwhelming, and Namutebi struggled to find footing.
15:35 - 04.08.2023
BOXING Erinah Namutebi smashes Mozambique boxer to reach Africa Boxing finale, Emily Nakalema settles for bronze
Erinah Namutebi has defeated Mulongo Sandra of Mozambique to reach the Africa Elite Men's and Women's Boxing Championships light welterweight grand finale.
Nakalema's victory was undeniable as she secured a resounding unanimous decision, asserting her dominance in the welterweight division.
In other women's matches, Grace Nankinga, the national team's flyweight boxer, displayed her strength by overpowering Shakirah Nantongo, leading to a victory in Referee Stops Contest.
Among teammates, Nadia Najjemba, competing in the bantamweight class, achieved triumph over Fatumah Nabikolo through a unanimous decision.
Meanwhile, in the featherweight category, Sharua Ndagire secured victory over Kansiime Phionah with a 4:1 split decision, showcasing her skills and determination.