What was your impact on boxing in Nigeria?
Upon returning to Nigeria, I launched into boxing promotion in Ibadan. Recognizing the sport’s virtually non-existent state, I committed to revitalizing it by organizing regular boxing shows. These events not only provided a platform for boxers to showcase their talent and earn a living but also instilled pride in their profession. Often dubbed the “Jesus Christ of boxing” in Nigeria, I spearheaded this revival in 1987 under Joy Promotions. My prior financial success in the United States as a multimillionaire in dollars significantly fueled my promotional efforts.
What prompted your boxing journey?
Prior to boxing, I excelled in wrestling, growing up in Lagos and becoming a national champion by age 15. In 1974, I secured a wrestling scholarship to the United States but shifted to boxing upon arrival, driven by a desire for further education and recognizing my physical advantages in boxing.
How did you venture into boxing?
After completing my education, I stumbled upon a boxing training facility while job-hunting. Intrigued by a picture of Muhammad Ali displayed outside, I expressed interest in becoming a boxer. Despite lacking experience, I was determined, which led the trainers to offer training from scratch.
What are your current goals in boxing?
My goal is to secure a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest boxer to win an independent world title. At 68, I aim to surpass Bernard Hopkins’ record. I’ve been pursuing this since the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and remain committed to hosting the fight in Nigeria.
Have you discussed the proposed fight with the current Minister of Sports?
I’ve expressed concerns to the current minister and met him, but as of now, I haven’t received updates from him regarding the fight’s progress.
How did your perspective toward money change after facing financial challenges?
My advice is to refrain from excessive generosity without stable income. Despite financial hardships, I remain committed to Nigeria and its people, rejecting offers to fight abroad to uphold my vision of hosting the fight in Nigeria.
What influenced your decision not to have children?
My decision stems from personal philosophy; I see life as a solitary journey and prefer not to bring children into a harsh world. I maintain a disciplined lifestyle, including eating once a week for health reasons and self-discipline.
With whom would you prefer to have the record fight?
Given the chance, I’d choose to face Andy Ruiz, believing victory would not only secure my Guinness record but also showcase my exceptional abilities and determination.
What was your impact on boxing in Nigeria?
Upon returning to Nigeria, I launched into boxing promotion in Ibadan. Recognizing the sport’s virtually non-existent state, I committed to revitalizing it by organizing regular boxing shows. These events not only provided a platform for boxers to showcase their talent and earn a living but also instilled pride in their profession. Often dubbed the “Jesus Christ of boxing” in Nigeria, I spearheaded this revival in 1987 under Joy Promotions. My prior financial success in the United States as a multimillionaire in dollars significantly fueled my promotional efforts.
What prompted your boxing journey?
Prior to boxing, I excelled in wrestling, growing up in Lagos and becoming a national champion by age 15. In 1974, I secured a wrestling scholarship to the United States but shifted to boxing upon arrival, driven by a desire for further education and recognizing my physical advantages in boxing.
How did you venture into boxing?
After completing my education, I stumbled upon a boxing training facility while job-hunting. Intrigued by a picture of Muhammad Ali displayed outside, I expressed interest in becoming a boxer. Despite lacking experience, I was determined, which led the trainers to offer training from scratch.
What are your current goals in boxing?
My goal is to secure a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest boxer to win an independent world title. At 68, I aim to surpass Bernard Hopkins’ record. I’ve been pursuing this since the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and remain committed to hosting the fight in Nigeria.
Have you discussed the proposed fight with the current Minister of Sports?
I’ve expressed concerns to the current minister and met him, but as of now, I haven’t received updates from him regarding the fight’s progress.
How did your perspective toward money change after facing financial challenges?
My advice is to refrain from excessive generosity without stable income. Despite financial hardships, I remain committed to Nigeria and its people, rejecting offers to fight abroad to uphold my vision of hosting the fight in Nigeria.
What influenced your decision not to have children?
My decision stems from personal philosophy; I see life as a solitary journey and prefer not to bring children into a harsh world. I maintain a disciplined lifestyle, including eating once a week for health reasons and self-discipline.
With whom would you prefer to have the record fight?
Given the chance, I’d choose to face Andy Ruiz, believing victory would not only secure my Guinness record but also showcase my exceptional abilities and determination.
