The Ugandan great John Munduga has reportedly died at the age of 64.
Munduga was one of the best fighters to emerge from Uganda during the 20th century. He participated in many tournaments – including the 1978 world championships and the 1980 Olympic Games – with admirable success.
He turned professional in Germany in 1981 along with another Ugandan great in John Mugabi, and he was associated with Britain’s Mickey Duff and the hall-of-fame promoter from Germany, Wilfried Sauerland.
In 1984 Munduga made his US debut and his winning streak continued until he shared the ring with Mark Breland, then among the world’s leading fighters, and recorded his first defeat when being stopped in six rounds.
After losing to Breland, Munduga was stopped in four of his following five fights. He retired in 1989 with a record of 25-5 (18 KOs).
Munduga became a coach back in Uganda and is credited with helping to discover the likes of former lightweight world-title challenger Sharif Bogere and the Olympian Jolly Katongole. His life in retirement was regardless said to be challenging.