In a shocking revelation, Netherlands-based Ugandan boxer Willy Kyakonye disclosed the paltry sum of 20,000 Ugandan Shillings (UGX) he received as appreciation after winning a medal for the country.
Kyakonye, fresh from a spectacular victory over Italian Giovanni Auriemma in the 7th round, clinching the World Boxing Federation International heavyweight title, opened up about the circumstances that led to his move to the Netherlands during an explosive interview with NBS Sport This Evening.
Kyakonye, whose boxing journey was inspired by his late coach Zebra Ssenyange, recounted his disappointment with the lack of support for athletes at the time.
“I had just represented Uganda at the African Championships and won bronze. I remember the President of the Country promised a monthly salary for athletes who won medals on the international stage,” he narrated.
However, the reality fell short of expectations, with Kyakonye and his fellow athletes receiving minimal compensation.
“They made us sign papers but we ended up earning nothing. At the African Championships, the only money they gave us was $50 for pocket money. When we came back, they gave me UGX 20,000 as appreciation,” he lamented.
It was this disappointment with the state of boxing in Uganda that prompted Kyakonye to make the life-changing decision to relocate to the Netherlands.
“When we came to the Netherlands for the Olympic Qualifiers, I decided to stay here. I decided that whatever the circumstances, I would stay in the Netherlands,” he affirmed.
Kyakonye has since settled in the Netherlands working as a coach and boxer. Reflecting on his triumph over Auriemma, Kyakonye credited a meticulously executed game plan for his success.
“The game plan worked. We planned to play it safe in the first four rounds and then go hard when my opponent got tired,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Kyakonye expressed a hunger for greater opportunities and financial rewards.
“I’m looking for big money now. This fight has propelled me to bigger things. Very soon I’m going to fight in Germany, so I am collecting money to be able to prepare to compete in those heavyweight fights,” he declared.
Kyakonye was full of praise for the current Uganda Boxing Federation President, Moses Muhangi, acknowledging his efforts to improve boxing in the country.
