The Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame (LBHF) recently marked a significant milestone with its 150th divisional championship, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre in Yaba, Lagos. Former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, who founded the non-profit initiative in 2010, commended the young boxers for their commitment and impressive performances. The one-day tournament featured 10 bouts, including men's and women's contests, as well as two exhibition fights involving secondary school students.
The monthly competition, organised in collaboration with the Lagos State Boxing Association, has become a platform for discovering and developing amateur boxing talent across Lagos. The championship rotates among the state's five divisions: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe. The latest edition drew boxers from 10 local councils and LCDAs, showcasing the growing interest in the sport. Edun praised the initiative's role in nurturing young talents and providing them with opportunities to showcase their abilities.
The 150th staging of the competition was particularly significant, as it marked a major milestone in the history of the LBHF. The competition has been held consistently on the last Saturday of every month, demonstrating its sustainability and popularity. The event also highlighted the importance of the divisional championships in the race for the Governor's Belt, a season-ending competition to determine the state's overall amateur boxing champion.
The Governor's Belt contest will bring together divisional champions from across Lagos on December 26 to compete for the overall IBILE Champion title. The champion of champions will receive the Governor's Belt, a prestigious award that recognises the best amateur boxer in the state. Edun expressed his excitement about the upcoming competition, which promises to be an exciting culmination of the year's events.
Ibrahim Akolade of Mainland emerged as the best boxer at the Lagos Central Division championship, defeating Isah Jimoh of Lagos West LCDA 4 with an impressive display of footwork, sharp jabs, and a decisive uppercut. Akolade described the award as a reward for his hard work and an important step towards achieving his professional ambitions. He credited his supporters, coaches, and the LBHF for their role in his success.
LBHF Director David Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the growth of the competition, citing the introduction of the IBILE Championships as a key factor in increasing the level of competition among boxers. He noted that the excitement is increasing, and everything is going according to plan. The IBILE Championships have injected more competition and passion into the sport, ultimately ensuring that only the best of the best emerge as Lagos champions.
The Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame has become a vital platform for promoting amateur boxing in Lagos, providing opportunities for young boxers to develop their skills and compete at a high level. With its 150th divisional championship, the LBHF has demonstrated its commitment to nurturing talent and promoting the sport in the state. As the competition continues to grow, it is likely to produce more talented boxers who will go on to achieve great things in the sport.
Key points
- The Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame has held its 150th divisional championship, marking a significant milestone in its history.
- The competition has become a platform for discovering and developing amateur boxing talent across Lagos.
- The Governor's Belt contest will bring together divisional champions from across Lagos on December 26 to compete for the overall IBILE Champion title.
