Uganda boxing fraternity mourns former Bombers star Adyak

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Uganda’s boxing fraternity is mourning the death of former national team boxer, The Bombers and Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) pugilist, Phillip Adyak.

Adyak, one of the deadliest light flyweight and flyweight southpaws Uganda produced in the 2000s, succumbed to brain cancer over the weekend in Minnesota, USA, following a period of deteriorating health. He was 43 years old.

On March 26, 2026, his wife, Christina, shared that his condition had significantly worsened due to serious complications, adding in a Facebook post that those wishing to say their final goodbyes or pray with him should contact her as he had only days left to live. She would announce his tragic passing two days later.

Nicknamed The Hunter, Adyak was part of Uganda’s golden generation team of 2007 that represented the country at the Chicago World Boxing Championship in the USA.

Boxer Phillip Adyak was part of Uganda’s golden generation of the 2000s. Courtesy Photo

Captained by lightweight Sharif Bogere, Adyak was part of a team that also included notable boxers such as featherweight Ismael Muwendo and light welterweight Eddy Akora.

However, in a dramatic turn of events, the four vanished from their team hotel in the United States before stepping into the ring, an incident that remains one of the most talked-about episodes in Ugandan boxing history.

Before the USA episode, he was spotted by coach Yusuf Kityo from Mbale in 1999, who introduced him to the UPDF boxing club.

Despite his immense talent, he initially struggled to break into the national team, particularly due to competition from the explosive knockout artist Jolly Katongole, widely regarded as one of Uganda’s most gifted boxers of the 2000s.

His breakthrough came following Katongole’s departure, allowing Adyak to establish himself on the national scene.

He was Uganda’s sole medallist at the 2005 World Military Games held in Pretoria, South Africa, where he won bronze.

During his time with The Bombers, he trained under Uganda’s legendary boxing coaches Kent Musa and Dick Katende.

In the USA, he further honed his craft under renowned trainer Kenny Adams, who also worked with former world champion Justin Jjuuko.

Tributes pour in

Uganda’s boxing fraternity has paid glowing tributes to Adyak, remembering him not only as a fierce boxer but also as a humble and dedicated individual.

Former world champion Justin Jjuuko described him as one of the toughest and most skilled fighters he had seen.

“He was one of the most hardworking and skilled boxers I have been with. I remember some years back he approached me for advice as he was frustrated about not making the national team. I advised him, and it paid off. Rest in peace, champion.”

Netherlands-based boxer Andaman Daku also expressed deep sorrow: “This one hurts deeply. A brother, a teammate, and a true fighter who gave everything for Uganda. You were not only strong in the ring but also kind, humble. Rest easy, champ.”

UPDF teammate Mzee Aldine recalled their shared journey: “We were teammates at UPDF and the bombers from 2004. He was such a nice guy and so talented. He is unreplaceable.”

Uganda Boxing Federation president Moses Muhangi described Adyak’s death as a major blow to the sport.

“Adyak’s death is a big loss to Ugandan boxing. We mourn together with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

According to Mzee Aldine, Adyak will be buried in the USA on a yet-to-be-confirmed date.

He is survived by a wife and children.