Probably Uganda’s best Boxing export Sharif ‘The Lion’ Bogere has sent out strong advice to local boxers who are willing to make it to the top.
Bogere who recently made a shock return to Uganda after a 12 year stay in the United States, met with Local boxers on Sunday afternoon at the Lugogo gym.
Members from Boxing Clubs – Lukanga, East Coast, Police, Kololo High, University of Pain, Ice-mark, Sparks and Zzana attended the meet.
In his remarks, he told the attentive boxers to desist from using performance enhancing drugs so as to protect their future and health status.
“I know that most of you are from the Ghetto, and you always want to feel ‘high’, but always remember that you have a goal to chase.
“I grew up in Kisenyi, it was rough. Kisenyi was tougher and more cruel than present day Kamwokya, but I kept my head down.”
He told them to always focus on their dreams, adding that the drugs will take them nowhere.
These drugs just wear out your body easily. Take a reference from my friend Zebra Mando here, he is still standing strong because he has managed to stay clean.
Leave Alcohol, Cigars and Marijuana, you will feel fine 100% and prosper in this sport.”
Discipline Will Take You Places
As an individual, Bogere is a calm and disciplined sportsman, no wonder he is under the Mayweather Promotions.
He told the boxers that indiscipline has led to the downfall of many international acclaimed stars.
This discipline should be showed both in and outside the ring.”
He also explained to the boxers on how to prepare for the game, including on how important a warm up is before entering the ring.
He threw much light on the diet, commenting that they should leave drinks like Soda or Alcohol for Water which should be consumed regularly.
He further advised: “Resting is also very important, and don’t misuse your free time to go to bars, you are still very young and beside, those places are not safe for you. Get enough time, at least eight hours, to sleep and refreshen your body and mind.”
More Advice From Bogere
Fight smart, be in good shape always, and try to make the ring your play ground. Master the steps, don’t be trapped on the ropes, work on your footwork, work on your guards to prevent punches from reaching your face.
Sacrifice much, including abstaining from sex weeks prior to the fight. Take care if yourself.”
Top Boxers Snub The Event
The event was not attended by the country’s A-list that include Juma Miiro, Shadir Musa, David Ssemuju, Yusuf Babu, Geko Solomon, Ema Kyambadde, Wasswa Ssali, Isaac Masembe, Meddie Lubega among others.
Uganda Boxing Federation President Moses Muhangi who attended the event, explained that the event was just optional, and not compulsory.
Muhangi, on having Bogere speak with Boxers (and Coaches earlier on Friday), revealed:
Its an honour to have him here for a while, I hope his strong message can be followed by our boxers. I have also told them (Boxers) to be patient, remain focussed, and be hard working.”
Bogere who used to play for KBC back in the days, captained the National team to the Aiba World Boxing Championship in 2007 before staying in Chicago with the rest of the team that included Adyaka Philip, Ismael Muwendo, Eddy Akola.
His senior record stands at 32 wins and just two losses. He has amassed 20 knockouts. Yes, 20!
