Joseph “The African Express” Kiwanuka is a Ugandan former professional boxer and NABF Super Middleweight Champion (circa 1997) known for his powerful style and 1997 win over Antoine Byrd. Based in Las Vegas during his career, he fought in the super middleweight and light-heavyweight divisions, compiling a notable knockout record before facing career-ending eye injuries (traumatic cataracts).
Key Details of Joseph Kiwanuka:
- Alias: The African Express.
- Hometown: Kampala, Uganda; later based in Las Vegas, USA.
- Titles/Highlights: Former North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Super Middleweight Champion.
- Career Record: BoxRec reports a professional career spanning 1992–2004, with notable wins and challenges against opponents like Segundo Mercado and Antoine Byrd.
- Fighting Style: Known as a powerful puncher with a “beautiful” jab, often training with top trainers like Emmanuel Steward.
- Post-Boxing: After retiring, Kiwanuka faced hardship in Las Vegas, suffering from vision issues (traumatic cataracts) and experiencing homelessness, according to a 2007 Las Vegas Sun News report.
- Return to Uganda: He later sought to return to Uganda to open a gym for young fighters.
His career included key fights in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including a move to light-heavyweight where he aimed for a world title shot before injuries.