Nigerian-born heavyweight boxer, Ike “The President” Ibeabuchi, has confirmed his long-awaited return to the ring with a comeback fight against Idris Afinni on Saturday, 23 August 2025, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
This was made known to the public on Tuesday during a press conference held at The Teslim Balogun Stadium Surulere, Lagos.
President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo described the fight as a defining moment for Nigerian boxing.
He said: “This marks the beginning of a new era in Nigerian boxing. Ike ‘The President’ Ibeabuchi is an international star with an undefeated record of 20-0. Though he’s returning after a long layoff, this is the fight Nigerians have been waiting for. Idris Afinni, a younger, active boxer, is ready to test himself against a legend. We expect nothing short of fireworks.”
Dr Oladipo also thanked Hon. Desmond Elliot for supporting the event, adding: “We urge the media to give a hundred percent participation to spread this story globally.”
Elliot promises security and spectacle
Hon. Desmond Elliot, who represents Surulere in the Lagos State House of Assembly, pledged his full support for the showdown, assuring fans of top-class organization and safety.
He said: “This event is as big as Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson in terms of spectacle. Lagos will witness history on August 23rd. Security is guaranteed, the International Boxing Association will observe, and I encourage Nigerians to fill the stadium.”
Elliot also stressed the importance of grassroots sports development, noting that his involvement was about inspiring the younger generation.
Ike “The President” Ibeabuchi confident of victory
In his first public statement since announcing his comeback, Ibeabuchi exuded confidence ahead of the clash.
“I feel stronger today than I did in 1999. Boxing is mental, and I have the mental edge. I remain undefeated, and I will prove on the 23rd that I’m still the best in the heavyweight division. My goal is to reclaim my path to the world heavyweight title,” he declared.
The former WBC International Heavyweight Champion, who famously knocked out Chris Byrd in 1999, said the Lagos fight is a chance to “show Nigerians what I’m made of.”
Idris Afinni vows to shock the world
His opponent, Idris Afinni, welcomed the opportunity to face Ibeabuchi, calling it the biggest fight of his career.
I’ve been boxing for almost 20 years. This is the greatest opportunity of my career, and I am prepared for 12 rounds. I respect Ike’s record, but I will send him down. This fight will change my financial life, my career, and everything about me. On August 23rd, the world will hear my name,” Afinni said.
Promoter promises biggest fight in Nigerian history
Miyen Akiri, promoter of PrizeFighting.tv, said the Lagos showdown will be streamed live worldwide and positioned as “the biggest fight in Nigeria’s boxing history.”
“Originally, Danny Williams, who beat Mike Tyson in 2004 was set to fight, but he pulled out due to injury. Now it’s Ike Ibeabuchi vs Idris Afinni. This fight is already attracting global media attention. Nigeria is ready for a boxing spectacle,” Akiri said.
Medical clearance secured
To allay concerns about Ibeabuchi’s age and long absence, Remi Aboderin, Secretary of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control, assured fans that the former champion had been medically cleared.
“Age is just a number. Ike has passed every health test and is fit to fight. This is about Nigerian pride, and we want every Nigerian to support,” Aboderin said.
