From the Gutters of Kitintale to Global Contention: The Story of Oteba “The Solid” Henry
In the relentless rhythm of Kampala’s hills at dawn, a predator is training. As the city sleeps, Oteba “The Solid” Henry is already at work, his footsteps pounding the slopes of Mutungo and Kyaliwajala. This is not just a run; it’s a declaration. A declaration that the journey from the humble ghettos of Kitintale to the bright lights of the world stage is earned one brutal step at a time.
Born in Tororo and forged in the fire of Kampala’s streets, Oteba’s life has been a masterclass in resilience. His foundation is the unwavering sacrifice of his mother, who rises in the dark to sell fish at Portbell Market her hard work the first investment in his dream. His sanctuary was the Sparks Boxing Academy, where he traded potential street chaos for the disciplined chaos of the ring, rising to become the 2022 Ugandan Youth Lightweight Champion.
But champions aren’t made in amateur glory alone. In June 2024, with a pro contract from Subena Promotions, he began a warpath of devastation that sent shockwaves through the national scene.
10 fights. 9 wins. 5 knockouts and three of them in less than two minutes.
- August 2024: Ahamed Kasozi – silenced in under 120 seconds of the first round.
- September 2024: Yakubu Magumba – met the same furious fate.
- October 2024: Tomusange Nicholas – failed to hear the first-round bell.
This is not just winning; this is a statement. A statement of terrifying, early-doom power that earned him the nickname “The Solid” for the concrete in his fists and the unshakeable will in his heart.
Now ranked Uganda’s #2 Lightweight and blazing up the global ranks to #380 worldwide, Oteba’s routine is a monk’s devotion: two savage training sessions daily, morning and evening, with every free moment dedicated to resting and meditation. His fuel is a powerful promise: “I fight to make my coaches proud, to support my family, and for my fellow boxers still grinding underground.”
He carries them all with him the pride of Sparks Academy, the hope of his family, the dreams of every unseen fighter in Uganda.
As he approaches his 20th birthday on December 24th, a symbol of light emerging, the boxing world is witnessing the rise of a new kind of force. Not just a puncher, but a purpose-driven warrior. Not just a prospect, but a national project.
He is OTEBA “THE SOLID” HENRY.
From the markets of Luzira to the mountains of Mutungo, he is coming. And he is coming to take what he has earned.