Yusuf Babu seeks redemption against Tanzanian opponent

From surviving bullets and detentions to staging a remarkable comeback in Ghana against Britain's Leo Atang, widely regarded as a future heir to Anthony Joshua under Eddie Hearn's Matchroom promotion, Uganda's heavyweight prospect Yusuf "The Rolling Tiger" Babu has lived a story defined by resilience and redemption.

Now, Babu returns to the ring this Saturday, April 11, at the Parliament Lounge in Nansana, where he faces Tanzania's Stephen Nyamhanga in a high-stakes showdown aimed at reviving his career.

The former national team captain is determined to bounce back from his devastating first-round knockout loss to Atang on December 20, 2025, at Legon Sports Stadium in Accra, Ghana. Since then, Babu has spent the last four months in intense preparation, tripling his training sessions and sharpening his focus for the upcoming bout.

The 2017 Bingwa wa Mabingwa middleweight champion is clearly seeking redemption to get his career back on track.

"This is my moment to prove all my doubters wrong. I've been through tough times, but I'm back to revive my career and there's no turning back," Babu said. "Expect to watch the Rolling Tiger that many boxing lovers have been craving for. Trust me, I'm going to serve this Tanzanian as a dish to my fans."

Saturday's contest will mark Babu's fifth professional fight since turning pro in 2022. He has previously defeated three of his last four opponents, including veteran Hudson Muhumuza and Tanzania's Alphonce Mchumiatumbo, before knocking out DR Congo's Yannick Katuta Manda in 2025. His only loss came at the end of last year – a first-round knockout at the hands of Atang.

His opponent, Nyamhanga, will be seeking his first victory on Ugandan soil in what will be his third attempt. The Tanzanian has previously fallen short against Ugandan fighters, including Saul "Mr Bad Intention" Male and Herbert "The Black Bomber" Matovu.

Dubbed "The Showdown," the event co-organised by Babu Boxing Promotions and Dubai-based Big Bang Promotions will feature an action-packed card of 20 bouts.

Among the day's undercard thrillers, 2022 Africa Boxing Championship featherweight bronze medallist Jonathan Kyobe takes on Derrick Wasswa, welterweight Ronald Nsamba faces Joseph Mugerwa, while lightweight Tom Muwanguzi battles Reagan Tamale.