Ike Ibeabuchi returns to boxing at 52 with third-round stoppage of Idris Afinni

Former heavyweight contender Ike Ibeabuchi marked a dramatic return to professional boxing on Saturday night, stopping Idris Afinni in the third round at Teslim Balogun Stadium, ending a 26-year absence from the ring.

Ibeabuchi, 52, who had not fought professionally since defeating future world champion Chris Byrd in 1999, faced Afinni on short notice after an original bout with Danny Williams fell through. Despite the age difference, the Isuochi-born Nigerian, nicknamed “The President,” displayed the power and presence that once made him a feared figure in the 1990s heavyweight division.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time,” Ibeabuchi told reporters during the pre-fight press conference. “This 26-year layoff meant nothing. I came to show the world I still belong in this sport.”

Afinni (18-9-2, 15 KOs) fought on the back foot throughout the match and retired after three rounds, unable to withstand Ibeabuchi’s pressure. Ibeabuchi, now 52 with a record of 21-0 and 16 knockouts, trained in the United States before being deported to Nigeria in 2021 after serving a 16-year jail term for battery, attempted sexual assault, and parole violations. Saturday’s bout marked his first professional appearance on home soil since returning.

The event, promoted by Prizefighting.tv and offered at a $30 pay-per-view, was hailed as a historic moment for Nigerian boxing. During the build-up, Ibeabuchi expressed interest in facing top heavyweights, including two-weight undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk, Tyson Fury, and Moses Itauma, signaling ambitions to re-enter the global spotlight.

Source: Guardian Nigeria | Read Full Story…