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Isaac Zebra Ssenyange Jr is Uganda's sole representative at the 2023 IBA Men's Boxing Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Ssenyange stormed the round of 32 at the IBA Championships on Wednesday evening after he defeated Ritzakis Thodoris in the elite men's 67-71 Kg Light Middleweight category.
Speaking exclusively to Pulse Sports Uganda, Ssenyange Jnr says he was a bit nervous ahead of the fight. The Ugandan boxer is on a self-funded trip without the benefit of a coach, friends and teammates.
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"First of all, I want to thank Ugandans for loving me. My social media is buzzing. It means a lot to me", he said.
Winning his first bout
Ssenyange says Thodoris wanted a fast-outright victory as he aimed to get a knockout over him.
"I walked into the fight a little nervous because this is the world stage, but I managed to control my nerves in the first round," he said.
"He started throwing haymakers, he wanted to knock me out, but I managed to control him with my jab and footwork. I started managing him, and punches started landing."
Thodoris would give in in the second round after Ssenyange's vicious punches proved too strong.
"In the second round, I started hitting him with some vicious left hands and right hooks, and he got countered in for the first time and second time, and the referee called it as it's supposed to be," he added.
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Making lemonade from lemons
Ssenyange admitted he had mixed feelings about the trip. However, he has learnt to take advantage of the freedom and is actively networking.
"Before travelling, I thought it was a disadvantage. However, it's a whole new venture without the coaches and other athletes."
"I am more into getting to know people and bringing the best out of any I can get my hands on."
"I am getting more exposure to the whole system. I got in touch with Nepalese coaches, who are in my corner. I love their assistance, and I believe we shall go far," he added.
The Prize-money
Ssenyange wants to reach the quarterfinals and make his way to the lucrative money bracket.
Gold medallist walks away with $200,000 (about 740m), Silver medallist (Shs320m) and semi-finalists (Shs120m)
"It would be life-changing to return to Uganda with that money for my family and gym."
"One win down and three more to get to the medal bracket. This win for Uganda Boxing Federation, for the fans, and my dad (RIP)."
Ssenyange Jnr will be back in the ring on Saturday against Eskekhan Madiev, a Georgian who defeated the then Uganda Bombers captain Shadir Musa Bwogi in the welterweight category round of 16 at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
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