Boxer Abdul, grandson of dictator, disqualified for headbutt
Ugandan boxer Abdul, grandson of dictator Idi Amin, was disqualified from the Commonwealth Games for headbutting his opponent in a super-heavyweight bout.
Disqualification at the Commonwealth Games
Ugandan boxer Abdul, the grandson of dictator Idi Amin, was disqualified from his super-heavyweight bout at the Commonwealth Games after officials ruled he had headbutted his opponent. Before the fight, Abdul told the BBC he wanted to become the new 'King of Scotland', referencing his grandfather's self-proclaimed title in 1976.
During the bout, Abdul received warnings in the previous two rounds and was trailing on all judges' scorecards. After the disqualification, he expressed dissatisfaction, claiming the decision was unfair and that his opponent had elbowed him. Abdul insisted the head movement was unintentional, saying, "How can I headbutt someone? I would not." He added that he knew he could not win without a knockout.
BBC Sport has contacted Commonwealth Games organisers and World Boxing for a response to Abdul's comments. His opponent, Thomas, who is now guaranteed at least a bronze medal, said it was "not the way" he wanted to win. "I can't change what happened today but I can control how I box on Friday," he said.
Historical Background
Idi Amin, himself a boxer, harbored a fascination with Scotland after serving in the King's African Rifles in his 20s. During his regime, he often wore a kilt and played the bagpipes, even declaring himself 'King of Scotland' in 1976. These predilections later inspired the Oscar-winning film 'The Last King of Scotland'.
Abdul, who never met his grandfather, was chasing Uganda's first Commonwealth boxing medal since 1990. In a previous interview, he said he was 'inspired' by Amin, though it was unclear whether he referred to boxing feats. Speaking to the BBC, he refused to answer whether he was proud to be the dictator's grandson but addressed how he feels being linked to such a sinister reputation.
