Uganda’s most recognizable female kickboxer Patricia Apolot, aka Black Pearl, has vowed to knock out her Tunisian opponent Lahkrech Yosra and capture her maiden African Title when the two meet on December 2, 2016 at the MTN Arena in Lugogo.
Speaking during a press briefing at HBT hotel in Kampala on Thursday, Apolot was in buoyant mood promising to give her Ugandan fans a performance befitting of the world champion that she is.
“I am going into this fight ready to prove to the whole world that Ugandans are fighters. With God’s grace, I am aiming at knocking her out and retaining my title. I have prepared well and I feel very fit. I am only waiting for the fight day,” said a determined Apolot.
The Hima Cement-sponsored kickboxer stands out as the most recognized Ugandan female fighter having won several international accolades and defending them in equal measure.
The fight is part of an international and continental championship dubbed “The reign of giants’’ organized by the Uganda Kickboxing Federation in partnership with Ampropen Company Limited.
Apolot’s record stands at 11 wins out of her 12 fights; all the six wins have been knockouts. She recently defended her titles at the World Kickboxing Federation international championship in Hungary.
Allan Ssemakula, Hima Cement’s marketing director, said the cement-maker has made a deliberate decision to support the development of sports in the country because when sportsmen and women shine, national pride is enhanced.
“Hima Cement recognizes the value that sports plays in Uganda and that is why we pledge to continue supporting its development. This is mainly to avail a firm foundation upon which sportsmen and women can catapult their careers to greater heights. We wish Patricia all the best as she defends her African title,” Ssemakula said.
Other fights lined up for the night include Uganda’s Alex Matsiko against United Arab Emirates’ Khalil Dermech. The other bout pits Uganda’s Shakey Mubiru against Tunisia’s Ben Anes Montassar.
Hima Cement has a rich history of sponsoring sports in Uganda. The company currently sponsors Vipers Sports Club, Hima Cement Heathens Rugby Club and is also currently sponsoring Uganda’s motor rallying sensation, Ambrose Byona, aka Omunyetto.
jsekandi@gmail.com
