By VIVIAN AHANMISI

Fans were thrilled by an electrifying showcase of boxing skill as the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame Championships returned in grand style.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event took place on Saturday at the Agege Stadium, Lagos, drawing large crowds of excited boxing fans.

The one-day tournament featured 10 thrilling bouts, marking the comeback of Nigeria’s longest-running grassroots boxing competition after a brief hiatus.

Boxers from across Lagos delivered outstanding performances, dazzling spectators and leaving them eager for more action-packed contests in future editions.

Fawaz Sharafadeen of Star Boxing Club, Ajegunle Apapa, scored the only technical knockout of the day, defeating Olamilekan Badiru of Lion Star BC, Ikorodu-West.

In the men’s 50kg category, Bolarinwa Michael of Next Page BC, Mushin, edged Daramola Daniel of Brightest BC, Otto Awori, with a close 3-2 split decision.

Lateef Qudus of Kamlat BC, Oyingbo, repeated the 3-2 result in the 55kg division, narrowly defeating Quadri Oyebamiji of Fighter BC, Ojo.

Samuel Talabi of Risadep BC, Abule Egba, beat Innocent Prosper of Always BC, Bariga, 4-1 in the men’s 60kg bout with confident ring control.

Adeyemi Adebayo of Olore BC, Alimosho, completely dominated Muftau Abdullahi of Oluomo BC, Surulere, winning 5-0 in the men’s 63kg division.

In the women’s 48kg category, the referee stopped the contest in the third round, awarding victory to Sofia Yakubu of Cico BC, Oshodi, over Nurat Sulaimon.

Ibrahim Olayiwola of Segun Body BC, Surulere, also impressed, defeating Azeez Ishola of Lion BC, Ikorodu-West, 5-0 with superior technique and movement.

Hammed Adegoke of Confidence BC, Kosofe, secured a 4-1 win against Dolapo Ajayi of AMK BC, Ifako Ijaiye, in a tightly contested 75kg bout.

The day’s final fight saw Michael Olomitutu of Ashimota BC, Odi-Olowo, defeat Segun Aboseh of Badagry BC after the referee stopped the contest in round three.

A jubilant Olomitutu thanked the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame for giving him visibility, describing the platform as a life-changing opportunity for young boxers.

He said the LBHF had brought him into the limelight, recalling his first appearance at the monthly show, where the founder, Wale Edun, noticed his potential.

“Meeting Prince Edun motivated me greatly. His encouragement pushed me to keep improving and believe in my talent.

“I look up to Anthony Joshua and dream of fighting at the O2 Arena in London one day,” Olomitutu said.

LBHF Director, David Mohamed, praised the athletes for their spirit and confirmed the organisation’s commitment to developing grassroots boxing in Lagos.

“It’s fantastic to be back. The energy from the boxers and the fans shows how much the sport has been missed,” Mohamed said.

He added that a new format had been introduced, with boxers selected through a network of coaches who brought in top talent, including national medallists.

“This event has been consistent for over 15 years. Our founder remains dedicated, and we’re here to keep the legacy alive,” he assured.

Mohamed reaffirmed that the monthly shows are officially back, promising that the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame will continue to inspire and nurture young champions. (NAN)