Sports 25 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Babu dismisses Matovu as 'boxing intruder' ahead of potential clash

Heavyweight boxer Yusuf Babu has labelled rival Herbert Matovu a "boxing intruder" amidst escalating provocations, dismissing his claims of superiority. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/boxing/babu-rubbishes-potential-rival-as-boxing-intruder--5570222

Yusuf Babu, fresh off a sixth-round knockout victory against Christmas Tumushime, has strongly refuted the claims of fellow heavyweight Herbert Matovu, calling him an “intruder” in the sport. Matovu had recently provoked Babu with a slap and declared he could not be defeated.

Babu, whose professional record now stands at 5-1-0 after his latest win, dismissed Matovu’s confidence, suggesting his rival boxes with fear. “I’m a boxer naturally, but Herbert is a boxing intruder,” Babu stated, contrasting his deep love and dedication to the sport with what he perceives as Matovu’s uncertainty.

While Matovu boasts a more extensive professional record of 9-2-0, Babu’s career was significantly impacted by over a year spent in jail shortly after turning professional in late 2022. Babu highlighted his strong amateur background, including national titles and captaining the national team, as evidence of his true boxing pedigree, a background he claims Matovu lacks.

Despite the verbal sparring, Babu acknowledged the need for personal improvement, focusing on increasing punching power and speed. He also expressed frustration with his promoters, Big Bang Promotions, for inconsistent match-making, warning he might terminate his contract if their performance doesn’t improve.

Babu has announced plans to fight a Kenyan opponent in Kenya next month, but also issued a stern warning to Matovu to be ready for him before the year concludes. The tension between the two boxers suggests a potentially explosive future bout.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)