KAMPALA, Uganda. In a thunderous statement that echoed across the East African boxing scene, Henry “The Hurricane” Oteba celebrated a milestone month by spectacularly resurrecting the fearsome power that made him a sensation. Fresh off celebrating his 20th birthday on December 24th, the young Phenom headlined the annual Zebra Mando Memorial Event on Tuesday, December 30th, at the Supremacy Lounge in Nankulabye. Oteba needed a mere 17 seconds of the first round to knock out opponent Ben Ssajjabi, sending a clear warning to all doubters and future contenders.
The victory, coming in his 12th professional bout, was a masterful display of the explosive talent that now defines Uganda’s next great boxing hope. Ssajabi (5-10), with 15 fights of experience, was rendered helpless by Oteba’s blistering birthday month assault, hitting the canvas before the capacity crowd could settle into their seats. This marked Oteba’s 6th career knockout and improved his sterling record to 11 wins with only 1 loss.
A Resounding Response to the Doubters
This knockout was particularly significant, serving as Oteba’s first of 2025 and his first since a second-round stoppage of Fahim Mubiru at the same memorial event in Bwaise on December 29th, 2024. In the interim, Oteba had secured three decision wins but faced whispers that his knockout power had dimmed.
“This was really necessary to show the world that you are still strong,” asserted an elated Coach Solomon from ringside. “All upcoming opponents should be warned. The hurricane is back with full force.”
The fight was a strategic showcase by his team. With senior head coach Kalungi Herbert observing from the stands, the spotlight was on junior coaches Solomon and Felix, who executed a perfect fight plan. Oteba was quick to share the glory: “I thank my coaches; they are the reason I achieved this win,” he stated, also acknowledging the support of gyms like Fitness Junction lugogo, where Coach Solomon works and where Oteba has extended assistance a testament to his commitment to grassroots boxing development.
A Prodigy’s Power: From Debut to Dominance
A product of the renowned Sparks Boxing Academy and managed by Subena Promotions and Events Ltd. Oteba’s journey has been one of rapid, relentless ascent. His penchant for early finishes is the stuff of legend, his very first professional knockout came against Ahmed Kasozi in just 21 seconds of the first round during his second pro fight on August 17th, 2024. Now, with the power and poise of a seasoned veteran at just 20 years old, his trajectory is unmistakable.
Now ranked number 2 in Uganda, Oteba and his management have set their sights far beyond national borders. “We have realized there are no better opponents in Uganda that can create good competition for Oteba and also grow his career,” said a representative from Subena Promotions. “We are now planning to focus across borders.”
The Road to Regional Dominance and Global Appeal
The plan is decisive: conquer East Africa, then the continent, and then the world. Oteba’s next fight is already slated for March 2026, with opponents now being sought from the competitive rings of Kenya and Tanzania. This move marks a pivotal shift from national supremacy to regional conquest, offering a compelling narrative for potential sponsors and brand partners.
“At just 20 years old, Henry Oteba represents a rare combination of proven performance and limitless potential,” his management added. “He is not just a boxer; he is a brand of excellence, resilience, and explosive victory. As he prepares to take over the regional base, he represents the perfect ambassador for any brand seeking to align with a young, dynamic winner who embodies strength, discipline, and Pan-African ambition.”
Henry “The Hurricane” Oteba is not just fighting opponents; he is chasing legacy, and his power freshly unleashed as he enters his prime has just been reaffirmed in the most emphatic way possible.
About Henry Oteba:
- Age: 20
- Professional Record: 12 Fights, 11 Wins (6 KOs), 1 Loss
- Academy: Sparks Boxing Academy
- Management: Subena Promotions and Events Ltd.
- Next Fight: March 2026 (International Opponent)