The boxing world witnessed one of its most remarkable comebacks on Saturday as Nigeria’s Ike “The President” Ibeabuchi ended a 26-year absence from the ring with a third-round technical knockout victory over Idris Afinni at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

Ike Ibeabuchi when he was declared winner of the bout….
Photo credit: Kayode Oluwa

The 52-year-old former heavyweight contender, who last fought in 1999, showed flashes of his old ferocity, forcing Afinni’s corner to throw in the towel before the start of round four.

A Historic Return After Two Decades Away

Ibeabuchi’s comeback was more than just another fight night. Once one of the most feared heavyweights in the 1990s, his career was derailed after legal troubles in the United States led to a 16-year prison sentence and years of absence from professional boxing.

Against Afinni, however, he fought with the energy of a man determined to reclaim lost time. He pressed forward from the opening bell, unloading heavy punches that left his opponent struggling to respond.

The decisive moment came at 1:47 of round three, when a series of punishing body shots forced Afinni into survival mode. By the end of the round, his corner had seen enough.

The victory extended Ibeabuchi’s professional record to 21-0 (16 KOs).

Pre-Fight Concerns and Medical Clearance

There had been widespread debate over whether a 52-year-old fighter who had been away for more than two decades should be licensed to fight.

Remi Aboderin, Secretary of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control, confirmed that Ibeabuchi passed a comprehensive round of medical checks before being cleared to compete.

“He underwent MRI scans, blood pressure checks, and full screenings for Hepatitis B and HIV. Only after passing all of these tests was he cleared for the bout,” Aboderin explained.

The Call-Out: Oleksandr Usyk

Never one to shy away from bold declarations, Ibeabuchi used his post-fight moment to call out the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk.

“I want to fight Usyk — the champion,” he declared in the ring. “I’m 21-0, 16 KOs… why can’t he fight me?”

Ike ‘The President ‘ Ibeabuchi in the Ring… Photo credit: Kayode Oluwa

The statement immediately set social media buzzing, with fans and pundits questioning whether the Nigerian veteran could realistically secure a title shot against the Ukrainian star.

A Challenge From Closer to Home

The night also took another twist when former world champion and cruiserweight contender Tony “Sugar” Salam publicly threw down the gauntlet to face Ibeabuchi in an all-Nigerian clash.

That potential matchup could be a more immediate and realistic test for the returning heavyweight, as the boxing world continues to digest his comeback.

A Night of Mixed Emotions

The Lagos event featured four bouts in total — three men’s contests and one women’s fight. The female bout ended in a dramatic second-round knockout, while the third men’s fight sparked controversy, with sections of the crowd booing what they felt was a premature stoppage.

But there was no doubt about the main event. For many fans inside Teslim Balogun Stadium, the night will be remembered as the moment “The President” returned to power.

Calls are growing for Nigeria to position itself as Africa’s first Formula 1 host, with experts and advocates highlighting the potential of the global sporting event to boost infrastructure, tourism, and international recognition.

Formula 1, the world’s premier motorsport, has become more than just a race for countries that have hosted it. Analysts argue that Nigeria—Africa’s largest economy—could harness the Grand Prix to accelerate development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Lessons from Other Nations

Singapore’s entry into Formula 1 in 2008 transformed its economy and global image. Once seen as a risky venture, the Marina Bay Street Circuit now attracts over 100,000 tourists annually and has generated billions of dollars in revenue.

The United Arab Emirates followed a similar path. The Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi boosted tourism, created jobs, and signaled the country’s ambition to diversify its economy beyond oil.

Even Azerbaijan, a relatively small economy, rebranded itself globally after hosting its first race in Baku.

Nigeria’s Untapped Potential

Observers note that Nigeria, with its vibrant youth population and thriving creative industries in music, film, and fashion, already commands global cultural influence.

“Hosting Formula 1 would showcase another side of Nigeria—its readiness to lead, attract investors, and host world-class events,” said a policy analyst familiar with the discussions.

The push aligns with Tinubu’s ongoing reforms in infrastructure, energy, and the digital economy.

The Economic Argument

Figures from other host nations underscore the scale of opportunity. The Miami Grand Prix generates around $2 billion each year. Singapore’s races have brought in more than $1.5 billion since inception, while the UK’s British Grand Prix attracts nearly half a million fans annually, contributing hundreds of millions of pounds to the economy.

Analysts suggest that a Grand Prix in Lagos or Abuja would trigger upgrades in roads, airports, rail networks, hotels, and hospitals. It could also create thousands of jobs across engineering, sports management, tourism, hospitality, and local businesses.

Funding and Partnerships

Experts propose public-private partnerships as the best approach to fund the venture. Financial institutions, multinational investors, and brands in telecoms, aviation, and oil and gas are seen as potential sponsors.

“Nigeria doesn’t need to go it alone. With the right partnerships, the first Formula 1 race in West Africa could become a reality,” one industry executive suggested.

Beyond Economics: Shaping Perception

Beyond financial returns, advocates stress that Formula 1 could help Nigeria shift its global reputation.

“Hosting Formula 1 is about more than money. It would change how the world sees Nigeria—from stereotypes to a nation of resilience, creativity, and ambition,” another expert explained.

A Race Against Time

No African country currently hosts a Formula 1 race. While Rwanda has expressed interest, campaigners believe Nigeria’s size, influence, and global appeal make it a stronger contender.

Nigeria’s music, Nollywood films, and fashion are already celebrated worldwide. Advocates argue that it is time for its tourism and infrastructure to follow.

“Formula 1 is not just a race—it is a platform for transformation. The world is watching, and Nigeria must not miss this chance,” said a stakeholder championing the proposal.

On Location, the official hospitality provider for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, has announced Integral as its exclusive sales agent in Nigeria.

The appointment means Integral will be the sole authorized company to sell official hospitality packages for Nigerian fans and businesses seeking premium access to the tournament.

Alicia Falken, General Manager of On Location’s FIFA World Cup 26™ business, expressed confidence in the partnership.

“We are thrilled to partner with our new international sales agent, Integral, on the FIFA World Cup 26™. Their expertise in hospitality sales in Nigeria and deep understanding of their market will be instrumental in ensuring that our clients receive unparalleled service,” she said.

FIFA Warns Against Unauthorized Sellers

FIFA and On Location have cautioned fans to avoid purchasing tickets or hospitality packages from unauthorized platforms, stressing that tickets acquired through unofficial channels risk cancellation.

“While there may be offers of unauthorized tickets and hospitality packages currently in the market, On Location is the only official hospitality provider of the FIFA World Cup 26™,” the statement noted.

The full list of authorized sales agents worldwide will be published and regularly updated on FIFA’s official hospitality website.

Integral’s Track Record

Integral, a leading sports management and marketing company with offices in Nigeria, Canada, Poland, the UAE, and the UK, has a long-standing relationship with FIFA hospitality programmes.

The company has delivered premium matchday experiences at five consecutive FIFA World Cups™. The 2026 tournament marks the third consecutive edition where Integral will serve as Nigeria’s exclusive hospitality agent.

Integral said the appointment reflects the trust built with FIFA and its partners.

“Our appointments reflect our track record and the trust that our partners have in our ability to continue connecting Nigerians with the world’s biggest sporting event,” the company stated.

About On Location

On Location, a subsidiary of Endeavor, is a global leader in premium experiences across sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. The company partners with more than 150 iconic rights holders, including the International Olympic Committee (Paris 2024, Milano Cortina 2026, LA 2028), the NFL, NCAA, UFC, and PGA of America.

It specializes in hospitality, ticketing, curated guest experiences, and live event production, making it a key player in transforming major sporting and entertainment events into world-class experiences.

What This Means for Nigerian Fans

The appointment gives Nigerian fans and corporate organizations direct and secure access to premium hospitality packages for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Packages typically include top-category match tickets, exclusive lounges, gourmet dining, entertainment, and behind-the-scenes access, tailored for individuals, brands, and corporate clients.

With this partnership, Nigerian football fans and businesses can look forward to a seamless and trusted route to one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events.