A London goalkeeper is facing an unbelievable career change after being chosen to become a king in Uganda.
George Desmond Kamurasi, better known as “Big G,” currently plays for SE Dons in southeast London. The 36-year-old could soon trade his goalkeeper gloves for a royal crown after being selected as the next Omukama, or king, of the Tooro people in Uganda.
From the Goal Line to the Throne
Kamurasi is the captain and goalkeeper of SE Dons, who play in the Southern Counties East Soccer League, the ninth tier of English soccer. The club has also built a significant following online, with its YouTube channel boasting more than 250,000 subscribers. Kamurasi regularly appears in videos, often giving passionate speeches to his teammates.
His life could now change dramatically. Kamurasi was selected by a royal succession committee following the death of his cousin, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. Reports say 15 of the committee's 18 members voted for him.
The Tooro Kingdom has around 800,000 people, although the position is a traditional and cultural one rather than a political office. Uganda itself is governed by an elected president and parliament.
Kamurasi Might Have to Leave Soccer Behind
There is one major problem: Kamurasi reportedly does not want to give up his life in London. The British citizen lives there with his wife and son and could have to move to Uganda if he accepts the throne.
The timing is also particularly strange. Kamurasi's cousin is due to be buried this weekend, but the ceremony could clash with an upcoming fixture for SE Dons.
Kamurasi has not yet confirmed whether he will accept the role. If he does, however, his journey from ninth-tier soccer in London to the traditional throne of the Tooro Kingdom would be one of the most unusual career changes imaginable.
Would you give up soccer to become king?
