In Lagos, Nigeria, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, 52‑year‑old Nigerian heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi fought for the first time in 26 years.
Ibeabuchi defeated 40‑year‑old compatriot Idris Afinni, who refused to continue after the third round.
After the fight Ibeabuchi issued a challenge to unified world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine, saying he intends to become the oldest heavyweight champion.
Recall that in June 1997 Ibeabuchi won the WBC International heavyweight title, beating David Tua by unanimous decision.
Ibeabuchi had not been in the ring since 1999, when he defeated Chris Byrd by fifth‑round TKO. He was later accused of sexual assault and battery, sent for compulsory psychiatric treatment and subsequently sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Ibeabuchi’s professional record stands at 21 wins (16 by knockout) and no losses.
