The boxing world was left surprised after Ezra “The Money Weza” Ssali failed to show up for his scheduled international fight against Sultan Al Nuaimi on September 13, 2025, in Dubai. Instead, Al Nuaimi’s record shows a replacement opponent — Juma Nassoro Juma of Tanzania — whom he defeated by unanimous decision over six rounds at the Round 10 Boxing Club.

For Ssali, the no-show has fueled speculation and debate: was it a deliberate tactical move ahead of his much-anticipated clash with Isaac Masembe on September 25, 2025, in Kampala, or were there deeper logistical and strategic issues at play?

Two Fights, One Problem

Originally, Ssali was set to climb two mountains within weeks: first, taking on the undefeated Al Nuaimi (12–0, 7 KOs) in Dubai, and then returning home just 12 days later to face Masembe (7 fights: 6 KOs, 1 draw), Uganda’s second-ranked featherweight and a global top-120 contender.

The schedule was already viewed as highly risky. Fighting Al Nuaimi on foreign soil was considered a monumental challenge, and walking straight into Masembe’s power and pressure style on short recovery time looked near impossible.

Why Did Ssali Pull Out of Dubai?

While Ssali’s camp has not issued an official explanation, several possible reasons are being discussed in Uganda’s boxing circles:

1. Strategic Focus on Masembe
   The Kampala bout against Masembe is arguably the bigger fight in terms of local prestige, fan attention, and career implications. By skipping Dubai, Ssali can give his full preparation and energy to a single, career-defining clash.
2. Risk Management
   A potential loss to Al Nuaimi, followed by a second defeat to Masembe, could have shattered Ssali’s unbeaten record (5–0, 3 KOs) and stalled his career trajectory. Prioritizing Masembe allows him to protect his record while taking on a challenge closer to his weight and within his home advantage.
3. Weight Class Dynamics
   Al Nuaimi is a natural super fly/bantamweight with international experience, while Masembe is a featherweight powerhouse. Juggling two very different opponents across weight divisions within two weeks may have been deemed unsustainable.
4. Logistics and Contractual Issues
   Travel arrangements, promotional negotiations, or financial disagreements might also have contributed to Ssali’s absence in Dubai. Such hiccups are not uncommon in international boxing.

Masembe vs. Ssali: The Real Test

The spotlight now shifts fully to September 25 at Supremacy Lounge, Kampala. Masembe’s power, high knockout ratio, and relentless style make him one of the most dangerous featherweights in East Africa. For Ssali, a bantamweight stepping up in class, this will be the biggest test of his career.

The Gamble Ahead

Was missing Dubai a smart tactical decision to maximize his chances against Masembe? Or will the criticism of “ducking” linger if he fails to deliver in Kampala?

What’s certain is that Ssali’s gamble has raised the stakes. A victory over Masembe could silence doubts and propel him into Uganda’s boxing elite. A defeat, however, would raise fresh questions about the missed Dubai opportunity.

For now, all eyes are on Kampala, where one of the most anticipated domestic clashes of 2025 awaits.