Boxing prodigy Jayden Magulu Jr signs with KFB Boxing Academy

Uganda’s budding boxing sensation Jayden Magulu Jr has taken a major step toward his dream of becoming a world champion after signing with the Texas-based KFB Boxing Academy in the United States.

Nicknamed the “La Masia of boxing” in reference to Barcelona’s famed football academy, KFB has nurtured a host of elite world champions. Magulu Jr’s move marks a significant milestone for Ugandan boxing and raises hopes that the country could soon celebrate another global star.

The breakthrough follows his outstanding performance at last year’s People’s Fighters Kids Boxing Championship, where he won gold and caught the attention of international promoters.

In Dubai, he became the only African to clinch gold and went on to set another record as the first African U-15 boxer signed by KFB Academy.

At KFB, Magulu Jr will train alongside explosive young prospects such as Kingy Jr and Dylan Capetillo, under the guidance of legendary coaches Israel Kingy and Abdullah Mason.

The academy also hosts world champions including four-division undisputed middleweight king Terence Crawford, who has visited Uganda twice, and Shakur Stevenson.

Speaking at his official flag-off ceremony at Kampala Parents School, Magulu Jr, flanked by Principal Daphine Kato and his mother Nnalongo Dorah Birungi, pledged to keep his dream alive.

“From day one my dream has always been to box my way to the top and join Ugandan legends like John ‘The Beast’ Mugabi, Ayub Kalule, Cornelius Boza Edwards, Kasim ‘The Dream’ Ouma and others,” said Magulu Jr, a Primary Six pupil at Kampala Parents. “I thank God for enabling me to start this journey because who am I to be signed by the KFB Academy?”

His mother, Birungi, attributed the achievement to her son’s hard work and exceptional talent. “I commend Kampala Parents for creating a good environment for my son to thrive in boxing. To me it’s not a surprise that an academy from the USA has signed him, given his unique talent.”

Principal Kato echoed the praise, describing Magulu Jr as a future champion in the making. “Magulu is a multi-talented student who excels in boxing, football, basketball and swimming. Above all, his discipline has been exceptional to everyone,” she noted.

With this move, Uganda’s boxing fraternity sees Magulu Jr as a rising star whose journey could one day place him among the nation’s greatest fighters.