In the realm of boxing, Nigeria continues to produce a cadre of exceptional fighters who dominate international arenas. These boxing champions, each excelling in their respective weight categories, are redefining the sport with their extraordinary talent and dedication, PETER AKINBO writes
Efe Ajagba (WBC silver heavyweight title)
At 30 years old, Efe Ajagba stands as a towering figure in the heavyweight division, boasting an impressive record of 20 wins, one loss, and 14 knockouts.
Holding the WBC Silver Heavyweight title, Ajagba’s journey from humble beginnings in Ughelli, Delta State, to the international stage is nothing short of inspiring. His powerful punches and relentless drive have earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable heavyweights in the world today.
Elizabeth Oshoba (IBO super-featherweight and WBC silver featherweight titles)
Elizabeth Oshoba has quickly made a name for herself in the super-featherweight and featherweight divisions. Holding both the International Boxing Organisation Super-Featherweight and World Boxing Council Silver Featherweight titles, Oshoba remains undefeated with a record of seven wins and four knockouts.
The 25-year-old’s exceptional technique and tenacity have made her a rising star in women’s boxing, with her sights set on even greater accomplishments.
Aina Abbey (WBF Intercontinental title)
Aina Abbey, the 27-year-old WBF Intercontinental Champion, has established herself as a powerhouse in the ring. With an impressive record of 11 wins, one loss, and ine knockouts, Abbey’s aggressive style and unwavering determination have earned her respect and admiration in the boxing community.
Her journey reflects a deep commitment to the sport and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Femi Oyeleye (WBC Intercontinental title)
Femi Oyeleye, the WBC Intercontinental Champion, boasts an unblemished record of 16 wins, 10 of them coming via knockouts. At 29 years old, Oyeleye’s strategic prowess and technical skill have made him a standout in the boxing world.
His dedication to the sport and his consistent performance in the ring have cemented his status as a top contender in his division.
Emeka Nwokolo (WBA NABA, UBO International, WBF, ABF, UBO World titles)
Emeka Nwokolo has captured five titles – WBF International super welterweight belt, the American Boxing Federation Mid America super welterweight title, the UBO International super welterweight belt, the WBA North American Boxing Association Super Welterweight and Universal Boxing Organization World Super Welterweight belts.
With a record of 13 wins, no losses and 11 knockouts, Nwokolo’s dominance in the super welterweight division is undisputed. His remarkable journey and string of victories underscore his status as a leading figure in Nigerian boxing.
Oluwatosin Kejawa (WBC Africa light heavyweight title)
At just 22 years old, Oluwatosin Kejawa holds the World Boxing Council Africa light heavyweight title. With an undefeated record of 10 wins and five knockouts, Kejawa’s rise in the boxing ranks has been meteoric.
His speed, agility, and power make him a formidable opponent and a beacon of hope for the future of Nigerian boxing.
Joshua Wahab (WBO Africa super featherweight titles)
Joshua Wahab, the WBO Africa super featherweight titles, holds a record of 23 wins, two losses, and 16 knockouts. At 26 years old, Wahab’s explosive power and technical expertise have earned him a reputation as a fierce competitor. His relentless pursuit of victory and commitment to the sport have made him a standout champion.
Adijat Gbadamosi (ABU super bantamweight title)
In June 2023, Adijat Gbadamosi made history by becoming the first Nigerian woman to claim the ABU super bantamweight title with a knockout victory over Zimbabwean Patience Mastara.
The 22-year-old, with an undefeated record of eight wins and five knockouts, continues to break barriers and set new standards in women’s boxing. Her success serves as an inspiration to aspiring female boxers across Nigeria and beyond.
Olanrewaju Oluwasegun (WABU light heavyweight title)
Olanrewaju Oluwasegun, the WABU light heavyweight champion, has had a storied career with 13 wins, six losses, and two draws, including 12 knockouts.
At 39 years old, Oluwasegun’s experience and resilience have made him a respected veteran in the sport. His dedication to boxing and his ability to overcome challenges reflect his enduring passion for the sport.
Farouq Abubakar (West African cruiserweight title)
Farouq Abubakar, the West African cruiserweight champion, boasts an impressive record of 11 wins, one loss, and 11 knockouts. At 31 years old, Abubakar’s power and precision have made him a dominant force in the cruiserweight division. His journey is a testament to his hard work and determination to succeed.
Rasheed Idowu (UBO Africa light heavyweight title)
Rasheed Idowu, at 25 years old, holds the Universal Boxing Organization African light heavyweight belt with a record of six wins, one loss, and one draw, all of his victories coming by knockout. Idowu’s aggressive style and knockout power make him a formidable opponent and a rising star in the light-heavyweight division.