By Vivian Ahanmisi
Ibrahim Opeyemi and Kingsley Friday delivered commanding performances on Sunday at the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame (LBHF) tournament, forcing referee stoppages in their respective bouts.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the one-day event held at Agege Stadium featured eight competitive bouts and two exhibition matches.
Opeyemi’s emphatic victory in the men’s 60kg and Friday’s dominance in the 75kg division stood out among the day’s contests.
Opeyemi outpunched Ajisola Habeeb so decisively that the referee intervened, while Friday overwhelmed Lekan Kolawole to secure an early stoppage.
Speaking after his win, Opeyemi credited hard work and support from coaches and fans for his success.
“I thank God for winning my fight and my fans for their support. I also appreciate my coaches for their guidance.
“I trained very hard for this fight. The LBHF gave us a great platform to showcase our talent.
“My ambition is to become a professional boxer, and opportunities like this help me demonstrate my potential,” Opeyemi said.
The women’s division also produced thrilling action, with Nura Sulaimon defeating Mariam Tijani 5–0 in the 48kg category.
Oyindamiola Agboola beat Sofiat Yakub 4–1 to claim the 51kg title in another competitive bout.
In spite of her dominance, Sulaimon remained modest, praising her coach and supporters for their encouragement.
“It was a great fight for me. I thank my coach for believing in me and supporting my journey.
“I never doubted myself, but I am grateful for the support and this platform for emerging talents,” Sulaimon said.
Other results saw Akeem Salisu defeat Mujeeb Olasunkanmi 4–1 in the men’s 50kg contest.
Kalid Akeem beat Saliasu Hamzat 5–0 in the 55kg, while Samodu Alabede dominated Ishola Azeez 5–0 in the 65kg.
In the 70kg division, Fasasi Faesol outpunched Ibrahim Kazeem 4–1 to secure victory.
Founded in 2010 by the Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun, the LBHF remains Nigeria’s longest-running amateur boxing series.
The non-profit initiative, backed by the Lagos State Amateur Boxing Association, has nurtured numerous talents and hosted prestigious tournaments.
It has produced notable fighters, including Taiwo “Esepo” Agbaje, a WBF Intercontinental Champion.
LBHF Director, David Mohamed, praised the athletes’ discipline and performances, expressing optimism about producing more world-class fighters.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
