Nigeria has been producing some of the finest boxers in the world for decades and has a proud history of producing some of the best boxers in the world.
The nation is home to a number of world-class boxers who have made a name for themselves in the sport, both in Nigeria and abroad. From heavyweight champions to Olympic medalists, Nigeria has produced some of the greatest boxers in history.
Here are some of the best Nigerian boxers who have made a mark in the sport.
1. Samuel Peter
Samuel Okon Peter is a professional boxer from Nigeria who achieved a great feat in 2008 when he became the World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight champion.
He accomplished this by stopping Oleg Maskaev in six rounds, a feat that was recognized by Premium Times, a Nigerian news outlet, as the 26th most memorable moment in Nigerian sports history since 1960.
Peter’s feat is a remarkable example of Nigerian excellence in the sport of boxing and showcases the country’s commitment to producing world-class athletes. His accomplishment has served as an inspiration for many aspiring boxers in Nigeria and beyond.
2. Dick Tiger
Dick Tiger was an incredibly talented boxer who achieved great success in his career. He was born in Nigeria but later moved to Liverpool, England to pursue his boxing career.
He was the first boxer to hold the undisputed middleweight and light-heavyweight championships simultaneously.
In the early 1960s, Tiger left Liverpool and moved to the United States, where he continued his boxing career. In the United States, Tiger fought against legendary boxers such as Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Robinson, and he won many of these fights.
His most famous victory was against Ali in 1966, when he became the undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the world.
Tiger was a highly respected boxer, and he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992. Tiger’s career was full of accomplishments, and he achieved a great deal of success as a professional boxer.
He was a pioneer in the sport and his legacy continues to this day. He is remembered by boxing fans around the world as a legendary boxer and champion.
3. Hogan Bassey
Hogan “Kid” Bassey MBE MON was a legendary Nigerian-British boxer who made history in the boxing world. He was the first man of Nigerian descent to become a world boxing champion, and his accomplishments have been honored and celebrated in his native Nigeria.
Born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, he was inspired by his father, a boxer himself, to pursue the sport. He began boxing professionally in 1948 and went on to become a three-time world champion.
He held the British Empire featherweight championship for four years, and the World Featherweight Champion in 1957. Bassey was highly respected in the boxing community and is thought of as one of the greatest boxers of his generation.
He was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1959 and the MON (Member of the Order of Nigeria) in 1980. He was also inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.
His legacy is remembered to this day in Nigeria, where he is seen as a national hero. He is remembered not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for his commitment to giving back to his community and helping to inspire future generations.
He was truly a trailblazer who made history, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
4. Ike Ibeabuchi
Ikemefula Charles “Ike” Ibeabuchi is a renowned Nigerian former professional boxer who competed in the heavyweight division from 1994 to 1999. During that period, he achieved notable victories against two highly ranked contenders, David Tua and Chris Byrd.
In 1997, Ibeabuchi beat David Tua, who was undefeated at the time. In 1999, Ibeabuchi defeated Chris Byrd, a future world champion. The success of Ibeabuchi was a testament to his skill and determination, and he remains a celebrated figure in the boxing world today.
5. Efe Ajagba
Efe Ajagba is a Nigerian professional boxer who has made history with the fastest victory in the sport. He achieved this after his opponent, who left the ring one second after the opening bell, was disqualified.
Ajagba has a decorated amateur career, with a gold medal at the 2015 African Games and a bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. He is a highly talented athlete who is making strides in the professional boxing world.
His record-breaking victory was a testament to his strength and skill in the ring. He is a rising star in the sport and has the potential to become one of the greatest boxers of all time.
6. Isaac Ekpo
Isaac Ekpo is a professional boxer from Nigeria who has had a successful and impressive career so far. He has challenged for the super-middleweight world title on three occasions between 2013 and 2018, showing his dedication to the sport.
Before his professional career, Ekpo had a successful amateur career where he competed in the 2004 Summer Olympics. This shows that he has been passionate about boxing for many years and has worked hard to reach the highest levels of the sport.
His impressive record and impressive performances have seen him become one of the top boxers from Nigeria. With his determination and skill, he has become a role model for young aspiring boxers in Nigeria and around the world.
7. Nojim Maiyegun
Nojim Maiyegun is a Nigerian former Olympic boxer who made history at the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. He achieved a bronze medal in the men’s Light Middleweight competition and became the first Nigerian to win an Olympic medal.
This monumental accomplishment was not only a huge success for Nojim himself but also a moment of great pride for the people of Nigeria. Unfortunately, Nojim Maiyegun’s success was short-lived, as he revealed his loss of vision in 2012.
This news came as a great shock to many, considering the great success he had achieved in his boxing career.
Despite this setback, Nojim Maiyegun has remained an inspirational figure in the Nigerian sporting world, and his legacy continues to be celebrated all around the country.
His story serves as an important reminder of the hard work and dedication that are necessary to achieve success.
8. Olanrewaju Durodola
Olanrewaju Durodola is a well-known Nigerian professional boxer. He has won multiple titles over the years, most recently the African cruiserweight title which he has held since February 2020. Prior to this, he held the WBC Silver cruiserweight title from 2015 to 2016.
Durodola’s impressive career began as an amateur boxer, where he competed in both the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2009 World Championships, both at heavyweight.
This was the start of what would become a successful professional boxing career, with Durodola winning multiple titles since. Throughout his career, Durodola has shown his ability to think on his feet and outwit his opponents in the ring.
He has established himself as one of the top fighters in the cruiserweight division, with fans recognizing his skill and dedication to the sport. Olanrewaju Durodola is an inspiration to many aspiring boxers, showing that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
His success in the sport is a testament to his talent and determination, and he will continue to be a formidable force in the boxing world for many years to come.
9. Gbenga Oloukun
Gbenga Oluokun is a renowned boxer from Nigeria. He represented his home country in the 2004 Summer Olympics, showcasing his immense talent on the global stage.
Since then, Oluokun has faced a number of former world champions and contenders in the boxing ring, including Manuel Charr, Lamon Brewster, Kubrat Pulev, Robert Helenius, Carlos Takam, Vyacheslav Glazkov, and Mariusz Wach.
By taking on these formidable opponents, Oluokun has solidified his reputation as a formidable fighter and established himself as an elite boxer in the sport. Oluokun has gone toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in the sport.
He faced Charr, a former world champion, in a ten round bout for the WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight title. He also went up against Brewster, a former WBO Heavyweight champion, in a six round bout.
Pulev, a former European Heavyweight Champion, has also been in the ring with Oluokun. He faced Helenius, a former WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight champion, in a ten round bout.
Oluokun has also fought Takam, a former WBC Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion, and Glazkov, a former European Heavyweight champion, in one round bouts.
Finally, Oluokun has taken on Wach, a former WBC International Heavyweight Champion, in another ten round bout. Through this impressive list of fights and opponents, Oluokun has shown that he is a world-class boxer.
He has proven himself against some of the toughest competition in the sport, making him a force to be reckoned with. Oluokun has earned the respect of his peers and fans alike, cementing his place among the sport’s elite.
10. Friday Ahunanya
Friday Chinedu Ahunanya is a professional boxer from Nigeria. He has made a name for himself as a journeyman heavyweight, which is a boxer who competes against a variety of opponents, regardless of their rank and record.
He is well-known for beating several undefeated prospects, which are boxers who have never been defeated in the ring.
Additionally, he has made multiple appearances on ESPN fight cards, which are events featuring professional boxing matches that are broadcast on the ESPN network. His success and notoriety in the world of boxing have made him a well-known and respected figure in the sport.
11. David Izonritei
David Izonritei, also known as David Izon, is a former Nigerian boxer who achieved success at the highest level of amateur and professional boxing.
He is best known for winning the Heavyweight silver medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics. Izonritei’s professional career was most notable for his victories over Derrick Jefferson and Lou Savarese, who both had previously challenged for world titles.
As a professional boxer, Izonritei was known for his aggressive style and powerful punching ability. He was also known for his ability to take a punch, which served him well in his match against Jefferson.
Izonritei’s career as a professional boxer was unfortunately cut short due to an injury sustained in 1998. Despite this setback, Izonritei is still remembered for his impressive career, particularly his Olympic silver medal victory.
He is a true testament to the power of determination and resilience.
12. Peter Konyegwachie
Peter Konyegwachie was a Nigerian boxer from Ogwashi-Uku, a town located in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. Ogwashi-Uku is the hometown of another Nigerian sport great, Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha. Peter attended Adaigbo Secondary School in Ogwashi-Uku.
Peter’s success in the boxing ring is an inspiration to those from Ogwashi-Uku and beyond, showing that hard work and dedication can pay off. His success has put Ogwashi-Uku on the map, proving that small towns can produce great athletes.
Peter’s story is a testament to the power of determination and focus and serves as a reminder to never give up on your dreams.
13. Nestor Bolum
Nestor Bolum is a prominent professional boxer from Nigeria. He had an impressive amateur career prior to turning professional, which included representing Nigeria at the 2004 Summer Olympics.
Despite not winning a medal, it was a great honour for the West African nation to have Bolum representing them on the world stage. Bolum put in a strong performance at the Olympics, and this put him on the map as a potential future star of the sport.
He went on to become a professional boxer and has since had a successful career. His success has been a source of pride for his native country and has shown that West African athletes can compete at the highest level.
Bolum continues to be an inspiration to aspiring boxers in Nigeria and beyond.
14. Ahmed Sadiq
Ahmed Sadiq is a Nigerian boxer who had a successful career leading up to the 2004 Summer Olympics. At the 2003 All-Africa Games in Abuja, Nigeria, he won the gold medal in the Lightweight division.
This was a great accomplishment and set the stage for his participation in the 2004 Summer Olympics. Unfortunately, his Olympic run was cut short as he was outscored in the first round of the Lightweight division by Cuba’s eventual winner Mario César Kindelán Mesa.
Despite this, Ahmed Sadiq had an impressive career and will always be remembered for his success at the All-Africa Games. His hard work and dedication to the sport of boxing is something that will be admired by many.
15. Duncan Dokiwari
Duncan Dalnajeneso Danagogo Dokiwari is a retired Nigerian boxer who achieved an amazing feat at the 1996 Summer Olympics. He won a bronze medal in the Men’s Super Heavyweight category, alongside Aleksei Lezin of Russia.
This is an impressive accomplishment because the Super Heavyweight division is the highest weight class in the Olympic boxing tournament. Duncan was born in Nigeria and had a successful career as a professional boxer.
He was known for his hard-hitting punches and his skillful defense. His dedication to training and his passion for the sport are what enabled him to reach such a high level of success.At the 1996 Summer Olympics, Duncan faced off against some of the best fighters in the world.
He won his bronze medal in a thrilling bout with Aleksei Lezin of Russia.
Both fighters showed incredible determination and skill throughout the match, but it was Duncan who ultimately emerged victorious. The achievement of winning a medal in the Olympics is an incredible honor for any athlete, and Duncan Dalnajeneso Danagogo Dokiwari is no exception.
He has inspired many young athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence. He is a true example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
16. Emmanuel Izonritei
Emmanuel Weingkro Izonritei is a professional boxer from Bayelsa State, Nigeria. He had a successful amateur career, highlighted by a victory at the 2003 Afro-Asian Games in India. He went on to represent Nigeria at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece.
Despite putting up a valiant effort, he lost in the round of 16 to Naser Al Shami of Syria, who went on to win the bronze medal. Despite the defeat, Izonritei’s performance in the Olympics was a source of pride for his country.
It was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and skill as a boxer.
17. Isaac Ikhouria
Isaac Ikhouria is a retired light-heavyweight boxer from Nigeria who achieved great success in his career. He first made history in 1972 when he won a bronze medal at the Summer Olympics, becoming the first boxer from Nigeria to ever win an Olympic medal.
His success continued a year later when he won a gold medal at the 1973 All-Africa Games. This made him the first boxer from Nigeria to win a gold medal in the All-Africa Games. His achievements have been an inspiration to many athletes in Nigeria and around the world.
He is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Despite his retirement from boxing, his legacy and accomplishments will always be remembered.
18. Effiong Okon
Effiong Okon was an accomplished boxer from Nigeria who represented his country at the 2004 Summer Olympics. His event was the men’s light flyweight division, where he was pitted against Alfonso Pinto of Italy.
Unfortunately, Okon was not able to come out on top in the first round and was outscored by Pinto. Despite the loss, Okon’s participation in the Olympics is an impressive feat and one that is indicative of his skill as a boxer.
While he may not have achieved the success he desired in this particular match, Okon is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Nigerian athletes.
19. Muideen Ganiyu
Muideen Ganiyu is a boxer from Nigeria who made a strong showing at the 2004 Summer Olympics. Representing his native West African country, he advanced to the quarterfinals of the Featherweight division.
Unfortunately, his Olympic run ended there, as he was stopped by eventual runner-up Song Guk Kim from DPR Korea. Ganiyu put up a strong fight against Kim but ultimately was unable to secure a victory.
His efforts at the Olympics, however, demonstrated his boxing skill and gave his country something to be proud of.
20. Jacklord Jacobs
Jacklord Bolaji Jacobs is a former professional boxer from Nigeria. He was an active boxer from 1994 to 2003 and had a successful amateur career before then. He was selected to represent Nigeria at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain.
This was a huge honor and achievement for Jacobs, as it showed how he had already built a successful career in boxing at a very young age. He was the first boxer from Nigeria to ever represent the country at the Olympics.
During his professional career, he had a great record of 20 wins, 0 losses, and 0 draws. He was a well-respected boxer who was known for his discipline, skill, and courage in the ring. After his retirement, he devoted his time to teaching boxing to the youth of Nigeria.
He was a great mentor and role model to many aspiring young boxers.
21. Richard Igbineghu
Richard Igbineghu-Bango is a prominent Nigerian boxer who has achieved major success in his field. He competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in the men’s super heavyweight category, and he ultimately won the silver medal in that competition.
His silver medal victory was a major accomplishment, as it was the first time a Nigerian boxer had taken home a medal from the Olympics.
This victory was a source of great pride in the Nigerian boxing community, and it further cemented Richard’s status as a legendary sports figure in his home country.
In addition to his Olympic success, Richard has also had a successful professional career, winning numerous titles in the super heavyweight category. His long and impressive career in boxing has earned him the respect of many in Nigeria and around the world.
22. Davidson Andeh
Davidson Andeh is a retired boxer from Nigeria who achieved a major milestone in his career. He won the world title in the lightweight division at the second World Amateur Championships, which were held in Belgrade, Yugoslavia in 1974.
He faced off against Vladimir Sorokin from the USSR in the final and ultimately emerged as the victor.
This victory cemented Andeh’s place in boxing history as one of the most successful amateur lightweight boxers of all time. Andeh had a long and successful career in boxing, as he had competed in numerous tournaments prior to the World Amateur Championships.
He also won multiple regional titles throughout his career, his first being a bronze medal at the 1973 West African Championships.
He continued to compete in various tournaments, honing his skills in the ring and further proving his talent. This hard work and dedication culminated in his victory at the 1974 World Amateur Championships, where he was able to defeat the more experienced Sorokin in the final.
Andeh’s victory was a source of pride for his native country of Nigeria, as he was the first boxer from the country to win the world title in the lightweight division.
It was a momentous occasion for him and his family, and it is a moment that will always be remembered in boxing history.
23. Obisia Nwankpa
Obisia Nwankpa was a celebrated Nigerian boxer who competed in the light and light welterweight divisions during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
During his career, he achieved several accolades, including the Nigerian lightweight title and the African Boxing Union light welterweight title. He was given the nickname “Golden Gloves” due to his skill and success in the ring.
Aside from his titles, Nwankpa also won numerous other fights during his long career.
He fought against some of the top boxers of the time, including fighters from the United States, Germany, and other countries. His achievements in the ring made him a household name in Nigeria, and he was seen as a symbol of the country’s strength and pride.
He was an inspiration to the younger generation of boxers in Nigeria, and his legacy lives on to this day. Nwankpa’s success in the ring was a testament to his dedication and hard work. He was a disciplined fighter, and he trained hard to ensure he was always at his best.
He was known for his strong punches and technique, and his ability to read his opponents in the ring. Nwankpa’s career ended in the late 1990s, and he retired from professional boxing in 2000.
He has since become a mentor to young boxers in Nigeria and Africa, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of boxers to strive for greatness in the ring.
24. Akeem Anifowoshe
Akeem Anifowoshe, better known as “Kid” Akeem, was a Nigerian professional boxer who competed in the Super Flyweight division.
He was highly respected for his boxing skills and had a successful career in the sport.In 1991, Akeem took part in a highly anticipated match against Robert Quiroga, which was named Ring Magazine’s 1991 Fight of the Year.
Despite Akeem’s best efforts, he lost the fight in a close but brutal unanimous decision.
Although he was defeated, Akeem was still regarded as one of the best fighters in the world due to his incredible performance in this match. This fight was seen as one of the greatest examples of Akeem’s boxing prowess and he will always be remembered for it.
Although he lost, Akeem Anifowoshe will be remembered as one of the greatest Nigerian boxers of all time. His legacy will live on in the hearts of boxing fans for years to come.
25. Kingsley Ikeke
Kingsley Ikeke was a professional boxer from Nigeria who competed in the US from 1995 to 2010. He had a number of notable fights during his career. One of his more memorable fights occurred in 2005 when he went up against Anthony Hanshaw.
Despite putting up a good fight, Kingsley Ikeke ultimately lost the bout on points. He would later go on to score a KO victory over Antwun Echols before being KOd himself by Arthur Abraham in the fifth round for the vacant IBF middleweight title.
Unfortunately, Ikeke would go on to lose a later bout against Jean Pascal, ending his professional boxing career.
26. Teke Oruh
Teke Oruh, famously known as the African Prince, is a retired Nigerian professional boxer who competed for nine years, from 2001 to 2010. He is one of the most renowned Nigerian boxers, having participated in a number of fights, both domestically and internationally.
Teke Oruh’s career started in the early 2000s, and he quickly rose to fame with his swift and skilful style of boxing. His impressive technique and powerful punches earned him the nickname “African Prince”.In his nine-year career, Teke Oruh fought in a number of matches.
He competed in various countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and the United States. During his career, he faced some of the top boxers in the world, such as Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield.
In addition, Teke Oruh also represented Nigeria in the 2004 Olympic Games, where he won a bronze medal. Despite his success, Teke Oruh abruptly ended his boxing career in 2010 due to health reasons.
Since then, he has made significant contributions to the development of the sport in Nigeria. He has set up several boxing academies to train young boxers and has also served as a coach and mentor to many aspiring boxers.
Teke Oruh is an inspiration to all aspiring boxers in Nigeria. He has achieved a great deal in his career and is a symbol of perseverance and dedication. His legacy continues to live on, and he will always be remembered as the African Prince.
27. Emmanuel Nwodo
Emmanuel John Chukuwuemeka Nwodo, more commonly known as Emmanuel Nwodo is a professional boxer from Nigeria. He is a prominent name in the boxing world, having competed in the cruiserweight division for many years.
His success in the ring has been impressive, with a number of notable wins over some of the top boxers in the division. Nwodo is a well-known figure in the Nigerian boxing world.
He has trained many of the country’s up-and-coming boxers, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the cruiserweight division.
He has also served as a mentor for many of these same fighters, providing guidance and support throughout their careers. Nwodo’s career in the ring has included some of the biggest bouts in the cruiserweight division.
He has faced the likes of Tony Bellew, Oleksandr Usyk, and Steve Cunningham in some of his biggest fights.
He has also been involved in title fights, coming close to becoming a world champion on multiple occasions. Nwodo is one of the most respected boxers in Nigeria and is seen as a role model for many of the younger boxers in the country.
He is a firm believer in hard work and dedication and encourages those around him to always strive for excellence. His career is an inspiration to many, and he is sure to be remembered as one of the greats of the cruiserweight division.
28. Cyril Panther
Cyril Panther was a professional boxer from Nigeria. He was born in Lagos in the mid-1960s and was a part of the country’s first wave of professional fighters. He was known for his skill in the ring, as well as his impressive physique.
He was known for his technical ability, with a style that often confused opponents. In the early 1980s, Cyril Panther began competing in the light heavyweight division.
He quickly rose to prominence in the world of boxing, winning several bouts against some of the best boxers in the world. He was known for his aggressive style and relentless pursuit of victory.
He was also capable of taking a lot of punishment and still finding a way to win. Cyril Panther was a popular figure in Nigeria. He had a large following that would attend his fights, and he was celebrated for his achievements in the sport.
He was also a role model for young Nigerians, inspiring them to pursue their dreams, no matter how difficult the task may seem. Cyril Panther was a great champion and ambassador for Nigeria.
He was an inspiration to many and a reminder that anything is possible if you work hard and never give up. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of his fans and in the history of Nigerian boxing.
29. Lukmon Lawal
Lukmon Lawal is a talented Nigerian boxer who made a name for himself on the international stage. He first competed in the men’s light heavyweight division at the 2012 Summer Olympics, but unfortunately his Olympic journey came to an end in the first round.
Despite this setback, Lawal did not give up. He continued to pursue his dreams and went on to compete in the same division at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
His determination and hard work was rewarded as he proudly represented Nigeria, and his performance was much improved from the last time. Despite not winning a medal, Lawal’s hard work and dedication have been an inspiration to many.
30. Lateef Kayode
Lateef Olalekan Kayode is a renowned Nigerian professional boxer. He has been competing in the boxing circuit since 2007 and is considered one of the most successful boxers in the country. In 2015, he was given the opportunity to challenge for the WBA Cruiserweight title.
This was a significant moment in his career, as the Cruiserweight division is one of the most prestigious and difficult divisions to win. In order to win the title, Kayode had to face some of the toughest opponents in the world.
He eventually fell short, but his effort was widely praised and he was still regarded as one of the best boxers in the country. Despite his loss, he still holds the respect of many in the boxing world for his dedication and hard work in the ring.
31. Rasheed Lawal
Rasheed Olawale Lawal is an amateur boxer from Nigeria who had a chance to compete at the 2008 Olympics in the lightweight division. Prior to that, he participated in the 2007 All-Africa Games, where he was defeated by Herbert Nkabiti in the junior welterweight division.
Lawal then decided to drop down a division, making the move to the lightweight category.
This enabled him to qualify for the 2008 Olympics in that weight class. Lawal’s competitive spirit and his determination to succeed are impressive, as he was able to take a setback and turn it into a learning experience.
After his loss to Nkabiti, he recognized that he needed to change something in order to increase his chances of success. He made the smart decision to move down a division, allowing him to compete in the weight class that was better suited to him.
This ultimately enabled him to qualify for the Olympics, where he was able to showcase his skills and talents on the world’s biggest stage. Lawal’s story is an inspiring one, demonstrating the importance of resilience and the ability to make adjustments when needed.
His ambition and dedication to his sport allowed him to overcome his loss and turn it into an opportunity for success.
32. Jegbefumere Albert
Jegbefumere Albert is a prominent figure in the world of boxing. He is a Nigerian boxer who competed in the light heavyweight division. His most famous appearance was at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
During the quarterfinal match, Albert was up against Rudolf Kraj from the Czech Republic. Unfortunately, he was not able to come out on top and was defeated. Albert’s defeat was a huge surprise as he was seen as the favorite to win the match.
Despite this setback, Albert’s career did not end there. He continued to box and compete in several other international events. He was able to gain some success and recognition in the world of boxing.
Albert’s time at the 2000 Olympics may not have gone as planned, but his career in boxing is still remembered and respected.
33. Christopher Ossai
Christopher Ossai is a Nigerian boxer who competed at the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow and the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Both of these Olympic events were in the lightweight class, and Christopher was a part of it.
After his Olympic career, he went pro and held the African lightweight title from 1991 to 1993. However, he was stripped of this title afterward. He has since retired from the sport, but his legacy as a competitive boxer remains.
He is remembered for his success at the Olympic Games and for his short stint as an African lightweight champion.
34. Joe Orewa
Joseph Orewa, better known as King Cobra, is a professional Nigerian boxer. He has achieved great success in his career, beginning with his gold medal win at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane.
This success was followed by his participation in the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where he competed in the bantamweight class. He proved himself to be a formidable opponent, demonstrating his skill and athleticism in the ring.
Joe Orewa was a renowned figure in Nigeria, with his prowess and dedication to the sport earning him the nickname King Cobra. He became a symbol of Nigerian pride and excellence, motivating many future boxers to reach their own goals.
His legacy lives on today, as he is remembered as one of the country’s greatest athletes.
35. Muideen Akanji
Muideen Akanji is a Nigerian boxer who competes as a middleweight. He was one of the few Nigerians to compete in the 2012 Summer Olympics and was determined to make his nation proud.
His event was in the Men’s middleweight category, where he went up against Ireland’s Darren O’Neill. Unfortunately, Akanji was defeated in the heats of the Men’s middleweight by O’Neill.
Despite this, he was still proud to have been able to represent his nation in the Olympics and left with his head held high. His defeat was a great learning experience, and although he was disappointed, he was thankful for the opportunity to have competed.
36. Jonathan Dele
Jonathan Dele was a Nigerian professional boxer who fought in the 1960s and 1970s. He was a tremendous athlete, competing in three different weight classes: super featherweight, lightweight, and light welterweight.
He was incredibly successful, winning the Commonwealth lightweight title. His professional fighting weight ranged from 1293⁄4 lb to 1363⁄4 lb, which encompasses all three of the weight classes he competed in. He was a highly skilled boxer with a tremendous career.
His accomplishments are a testament to his skill and dedication.
37. Yaqub Kareem
Yaqub Kareem is a professional boxer from Nigeria who competed in the 2000s and 2010s. He is known for his impressive boxing career, which has seen him win the Commonwealth super flyweight title.
His boxing weight varied depending on the division he was competing in, ranging from 113 pounds (super flyweight) to 119 pounds (super bantamweight).
Kareem was able to achieve great success in all of these weight classes, cementing his reputation as a formidable fighter in the boxing world. He is highly respected in his native Nigeria and beyond and continues to be a source of inspiration to aspiring boxers.
38. Eddie Ndukwu
Eddie Ndukwu was a Nigerian amateur and professional boxer who competed in the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s. He was active in the bantamweight, super bantamweight, and featherweight divisions. As an amateur, he won the gold medal in bantamweight at the 1966 Commonwealth Games.
Ndukwu was also a three-time Nigerian national champion in the bantamweight, super bantamweight, and featherweight divisions.
During his professional career, Ndukwu had notable victories against world champions such as Howard Winstone, Alfredo Marcano, and Cornelius Boza-Edwards. He finished his professional career in 1984 with a record of 24 wins, seven losses, and one draw.
Ndukwu was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004.
39. Efetobor Wesley Apochi
Efetobor Wesley Apochi is a prominent figure in the boxing world. He is the current captain of the Nigerian boxing team and has represented Nigeria at various international tournaments.
Apochi is a heavyweight boxer and first entered the international boxing scene at the 2011 All-Africa Games. His appearance at the tournament was met with surprise from the boxing world, as he managed to secure second place and make a name for himself.
Apochi has since continued to compete in various international tournaments, and is held in high regard by the boxing community.
He is an inspirational figure for many aspiring Nigerian boxers, and his achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication he puts into the sport.
40. Onorede Ehwareme
Onoriode Ehwarieme, also known as Godzilla, was an amateur boxer from Nigeria. He gained notoriety when he qualified for the 2008 Summer Olympics in the super heavyweight division, a remarkable accomplishment for an amateur fighter.
Onoriode had trained hard for this opportunity and it paid off. Onoriode Ehwarieme’s journey as a boxer continued when he decided to turn professional on December 5, 2010.
He was determined to continue to fight and compete at the highest level, and his decision to turn pro was the next logical step in his boxing career.
He had already proven himself as an amateur boxer and was now ready to take his career to the next level. Onoriode Ehwarieme continued to fight professionally and eventually won the Nigerian Professional Boxing League Super Heavyweight Championship in 2014.
His dedication and hard work had paid off, and he was now recognized as one of Nigeria’s top boxers. Onoriode Ehwarieme was an inspirational figure and a symbol of perseverance in the sport of boxing.
41. Ehinomen Ehikhamenor
Ehinomen Ehikhamenor is a professional boxer from Nigeria who competes in the cruiserweight division. He has achieved a great deal of success in the boxing world, winning multiple titles and accolades.
Ehikhamenor is a two-time Nigerian Super Middleweight champion, a former African Boxing Union Cruiserweight champion, and a former WBC International Cruiserweight champion.
He is currently ranked number 8 in the world by the WBC. Ehikhamenor has been boxing since he was a teenager and has had an impressive career. He has fought in numerous countries, including Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, and China.
He has won 33 out of his 42 professional fights, with 26 of those victories coming by way of knockout.
Ehikhamenor is known for his aggressive style, which has earned him the nickname “The King of Pain”.Ehikhamenor is an inspiration to many young boxers in Nigeria, and his success has helped to raise the profile of the sport in the country.
He is an important figure in the Nigerian boxing community and is respected for his determination and hard work. He has shown that it is possible to reach the highest levels of success in the sport, even from a relatively small country.
42. Andy Ologun
Andy Ologun is an accomplished athlete from Nigeria. He is well known for his impressive career in professional boxing, mixed martial arts, kickboxing and acting. He has fought in various organizations such as K-1 and DREAM, and has been successful in each of them.
Ologun is the younger brother of the famous television personality and mixed martial artist, Bobby Ologun. Throughout his career, Ologun has proven to be a formidable fighter.
He has achieved a notable K-1 kickboxing win over Takayuki Kohiruimaki and a win at Dynamite!!, further cementing his status as a respected fighter.
Ologun has also been featured in various films and television shows, showcasing his talents as an actor. Ologun is an example of an athlete who has achieved success in multiple disciplines.
His accomplishments showcase his dedication and hard work, as well as his determination to be the best in whatever he does. He is a true inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.
43. Ray Amoo
Ray Amoo was a Nigerian professional boxer who competed in the flyweight and bantamweight divisions in the 1970s and 1980s.
He had a successful career, winning the Commonwealth flyweight title as well as becoming a challenger for the West African Boxing Union flyweight title against Nana Yaw Konadu.
Amoo was known for his aggressive style and powerful punches, making him one of the most feared opponents of his time. He was also known for his impressive footwork, which allowed him to move around the ring and avoid his opponent’s punches.
Amoo’s success in the ring earned him a great deal of respect from his peers and fans, and he was considered one of the best boxers of his era.
44. Hogan Jimoh
Hogan “Atomic Bomb” Jimoh was a successful Nigerian professional lightweight boxer in the 1970s and 1980s. He was a decorated fighter, having won the Nigerian Lightweight Title, the West African Lightweight Title, and the Commonwealth Lightweight Title.
During his career, he was known for his aggressive and powerful fighting style, which earned him his nickname, “Atomic Bomb”. He was a formidable opponent in the ring, and his successes in the lightweight division made him a respected name in the boxing world.
His accomplishments in the ring serve as an example of the potential of Nigerian boxers, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of his fans.
45. David Defiagbon
David Dejiro Defiagbon was a Nigerian-born boxer who fought for Canada in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned the nickname “The Dream” due to his immense skill and talent in the ring.
Defiagbon was a formidable opponent and was able to take home the silver medal in the heavyweight division. This was an impressive achievement, especially for a boxer from a relatively unknown nation such as Nigeria.
Defiagbon’s career was very successful, and he was able to make a name for himself in the world of boxing. He was particularly known for his powerful jabs and precise footwork.
His skill in the ring was admired by many, and his ability to stay composed under pressure was a testament to his strength of character. Defiagbon’s career was cut short when he retired in 2001 due to a shoulder injury.
However, his legacy lives on, and he is remembered as one of the greatest boxers to ever come out of Nigeria. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing his place in boxing history.
46. James Oyebola
James Oyebola was a boxer from Nigeria and Britain who had a successful career in the ring. He was born in Lagos, Nigeria in the late 1950s and began his boxing career in the early 1980s.
Oyebola made a name for himself in the world of boxing by winning a bronze medal at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in the super heavyweight division.
He then went on to become the British heavyweight champion from 1994 to 1996. Throughout his career, Oyebola was known for his determination and courage in the ring. He was respected for his ability to take a punch and stay on his feet, as well as for his technical skill.
Oyebola was considered a formidable opponent by many of his opponents and earned the admiration and respect of boxing fans all around the world. Oyebola’s legacy lives on in the boxing world, and he is remembered as a talented and courageous fighter.
He paved the way for many aspiring boxers and continues to be an inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.
47. Ijeoma Egbunine
Ijeoma Egbunine was a professional boxer from Nigeria who had a successful career between 2004 and 2011. She began her career in 2004 and worked hard to be the best boxer she could be.
In 2006, she achieved her greatest success when she became the Women’s International Boxing Federation (WIBF) light-heavyweight champion.
Being the WIBF light-heavyweight champion was a major accomplishment for Egbunine, and it was a testament to her dedication and skill as a boxer. She worked hard for over 7 years to reach that level of success, and it was certainly well deserved.
Despite retiring from professional boxing in 2011, Egbunine will always be remembered for her accomplishments, particularly for being the WIBF light-heavyweight champion in 2006. She is an example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication to a sport.
Conclusion
Nigeria has produced some of the best boxers in the world. These boxers have achieved great success in the ring and have made a huge impact on the sport of boxing in Nigeria.
Nigeria has a proud tradition of producing world-class boxers and these boxers continue to strive to become the best in the world.
