Aziz Abdul, the grandson of former Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, has declared his ambition to become the “new King of Scotland” by securing a gold medal in heavyweight boxing at the upcoming Commonwealth Games. Abdul, who is making his debut next week in Glasgow, credits his grandfather as a major source of inspiration in his boxing career.

Idi Amin, who ruled Uganda during the 1970s, is widely remembered for his brutal dictatorship marked by widespread human rights abuses, including the mass killing of an estimated 500,000 people, the expulsion of Uganda’s Asian minority, and severe economic decline. Amin died in 2003 without facing international justice for his actions. Despite this legacy, Amin had an unusual fascination with Scotland, often donning kilts and playing bagpipes, and famously proclaimed himself “The Last King of Scotland” in 1976—a phrase later adopted as the title of a novel and a 2006 film depicting his rule.

Abdul, nicknamed “Ringo,” said his grandfather’s own background as a heavyweight boxer drives his determination. “He was a heavyweight boxer like me, and I am so proud of him,” Abdul said, emphasizing his confidence and readiness to win by knockout. He also expressed excitement ahead of his next bout against England’s Damar Thomas, citing legendary boxer Mike Tyson as a role model. “If I win the gold medal, I will be the baddest man in the Commonwealth, the baddest man in Glasgow, and the new King of Scotland,” Abdul stated.

Uganda has a notable history in Commonwealth boxing, having secured eight gold medals to date, including three at the 1970 Edinburgh Games. However, the country has not claimed a gold medal in the sport since 1990. Abdul hopes to end that drought and make a mark in this year’s competition. He declined to disclose details of his signature move, which he calls the “Ringo punch,” promising instead to reveal it during the competition if the timing is right.

Abdul’s remarks also touched on a strong self-image and fighting spirit, likening himself to a lion and emphasizing a legacy of strength passed down through generations. “Lions give back to lions. A lion cannot give back to a dog or a camel. A lion must resemble a lion,” he said. His statements underscore a blend of personal ambition and a symbolic connection to his family history as he prepares for his Commonwealth Games debut.