The ninth edition of the Akalaka Spirit of the Warrior promotion was held in Abuja, featuring seven MMA bouts and a special boxing exhibition. The event, tagged ‘The Battle of the Mystic Sword’, showcased Nigerian talent, discipline, and cultural heritage. Jackiel Ayana and David Ezekiel emerged as winners, impressing the audience with their skills. The Akalaka promotion has become a significant platform for martial arts in Nigeria, highlighting the country's growing interest in the sport.
Jackiel Ayana, also known as ‘Smiling Assassin’, won the featherweight main event by submitting Victor Dooga, aka ‘The Benue Boy’, through a rare naked choke in two minutes and 37 seconds. This decisive victory earned Ayana three major honours, including Best Submission, Best Fighter of the Night, and the coveted Mystic Sword. Ayana's performance was outstanding, demonstrating his dedication, discipline, and commitment to continuous improvement.
David Ezekiel, known as ‘The Badger’, won the Best Knockout Artist of the Night award after defeating Joseph James, aka ‘The Great Lion’, by technical knockout. Ezekiel's victory was a testament to his skill and endurance. Other winners included Casmir Junior, aka ‘The Poison’, who defeated Daniel Appah, aka ‘The RoadMap’, by tap-out submission in the welterweight co-main event.
The Akalaka 009 event featured several notable matches, including Chima-Cole Emmanuel, aka ‘The Oracle’, who recorded a stoppage victory by knocking out Godwin Ambrose, aka ‘The Big Name’, in the light heavyweight division. Beckefula Tarilayefa defeated Blessing Ejike, aka ‘The Amazon’, by split decision in the women’s catchweight contest. Abdulkareen Nasirudeen, aka ‘The Black Wolf’, defeated Aliyu Yusuf in the bantamweight division after his opponent withdrew.
In addition to the MMA bouts, an exhibition boxing match took place, featuring Inimfon Ekong, popularly known as “The Woman Pharaoh”, who defeated Simon Ameh by split decision. Ekong used the occasion to advocate for women’s empowerment and condemn abuse. She emphasized the importance of women pursuing their ambitions without allowing others to undermine their confidence or potential.
Ekong's message resonated with the audience, as she encouraged women to prioritize their safety and seek help in situations of abuse. She also cautioned against imitating exhibition boxing outside a controlled sporting environment, highlighting the importance of proper training and preparation. The event provided a platform for Ekong to communicate an important message about courage, self-belief, and personal safety.
The Akalaka 009 event concluded with a sense of accomplishment, as winners celebrated their achievements. Ayana and Ezekiel's victories marked a significant moment in their careers, demonstrating their skill and dedication to the sport. The event showcased the growing popularity of martial arts in Nigeria, highlighting the country's potential for producing talented athletes.
Key points
- Jackiel Ayana won the featherweight main event and three major honours.
- David Ezekiel won the Best Knockout Artist of the Night award.
- Inimfon Ekong advocated for women’s empowerment and condemned abuse during an exhibition boxing match.
