Boxers deliver perfect punches at LBHF monthly showdown

The April edition of the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame monthly boxing tournament produced thrilling contests at the Agege Stadium, with Juwon Fatade and Julius Bossinu delivering flawless victories to headline the event.

Fatade opened proceedings in commanding fashion, outclassing Mustapha Yusuf with a unanimous 5–0 win in the men’s 50kg category. Bossinu followed suit in the men’s 60kg, overpowering Innocent Prosper to secure another emphatic 5–0 result. Their performances set the tone for a night of spirited competition, as Opeyemi Lawal also impressed with a dominant 5–0 victory over Wahab Ramadan in the men’s 70kg.

Other bouts were more closely contested. Tajudeen Rasheed edged Aliazeem Ogunleye 3–2 in the men’s 60kg, while Idris Ibadiaran narrowly defeated Makinde Mohamed 3–2 in the men’s 75kg.

In the only female bout of the evening, Amirat Oluwatoyin showed resilience to claim a 3–2 win over Raheemo Animashaun in the 48kg category. Mohamed Lawal overwhelmed Oluwaseun Olawepo in the men’s 80kg with a 4–0 victory, and Faruq Adenle dazzled the crowd with a stylish 5–0 win against Tajudeen Yekini in the men’s 55kg.

Founded in 2010, LBHF has grown into Nigeria’s—and Africa’s—longest-running amateur boxing tournament.

Conceived by former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the initiative was designed to provide young boxers with a platform to train, sharpen their skills, and gain exposure. Sixteen years on, it has become a cornerstone of grassroots boxing development in Nigeria.

Speaking at the 145th edition, Edun expressed pride in the tournament’s consistency and its role in nurturing future champions.

“This is a conveyor belt, an academy, and a proving ground for professional boxing. Every month, these young athletes train hard, live disciplined lives, and come here to showcase their skills. Our commitment is to prepare them to become Olympians who will not only participate but win medals—gold medals—for Nigeria,” he said.

LBHF Director David Mohammed echoed the sentiment, emphasising the importance of consistency. “This monthly show continues to deliver on its mandate. We are excited about the upcoming IBILE Championship, which will bring together champions from across Lagos’ divisions. That’s the next phase, and everyone is looking forward to it,” he noted.

With flawless wins from Fatade and Bossinu, alongside spirited performances across weight categories, the April edition reaffirmed LBHF’s reputation as a breeding ground for Nigeria’s next generation of boxing stars.