Follow
X
Follow
In a dramatic twist to the heavyweight scene, Nigerian boxer Ike Ibeabuchi made a sensational comeback on Saturday night after a 26-year layoff, securing a stoppage win in Lagos and immediately calling out undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The undefeated veteran, now 21-0 (16 KOs), was once a rising star of the 1990s, with memorable victories over David Tua and Chris Byrd that positioned him for a world title shot. But his career collapsed in 1999 when he was arrested in Las Vegas and later sentenced to 16 years in prison for multiple offenses.
Deported back to Nigeria in 2021, Ibeabuchi struggled to reignite his career until finally landing a bout with compatriot Idris Afinni (18-9-2) at Teslim Balogun Stadium. For three rounds, the 52-year-old applied relentless pressure, while Afinni offered little resistance beyond a jab before retiring on his stool.

Seizing the moment, Ibeabuchi issued a bold challenge:
“I want to fight Usyk, the champion. I am 21-0, 16 knockouts, why can’t he fight me? I want him before time elapses.”



WhatsApp us