Nigerian heavyweight veteran Ike Ibeabuchi will make another high-profile return to the ring on 24 December, when he challenges for the World Boxing Bureau (WBB) Heavyweight Championship at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.
The WBB has officially sanctioned the bout, marking another significant step in the 52-year-old’s determined comeback.
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A win would edge Ibeabuchi closer to surpassing George Foreman’s long-standing record as the oldest man to claim a recognised heavyweight title. Foreman achieved the feat at 45 in 1994; Ibeabuchi aims to better it at 52.
Ibeabuchi will face Kabiru Towolawi in a 12-round main event promoted by Prizer Fighting TV
The former undefeated heavyweight—who boasts a 21-0 record with 16 knockouts—has spoken boldly about his ambitions, insisting his desire to become undisputed champion “is burning hot” and declaring he would “knock Usyk out just like George Foreman knocked out Michael Moorer.”
A dominant force in the late 1990s, Ibeabuchi defeated top contenders David Tua and Chris Byrd before an extended absence from the sport. He resumed his career in August 2025 with a stoppage win over Idris Afinni in Lagos.
The December championship fight represents more than a belt; it offers Ibeabuchi a chance to push toward global contention in 2026.
His camp believes a strong showing could open the door to a major world-level opportunity next year.
Full Fight Card – Lagos, 24 December
Cruiserweight – 10 rounds
Sunday Abudu vs Idris Afinni
Heavyweight – 10 rounds
Kazeem Samson vs TBA
Super Middleweight – 6 rounds
Sadiq Olaotan Idris vs Moses Sorinola
Lightweight – 6 rounds
Arabambi Ojo vs Azeez Lateef Damilare
Super Lightweight – 6 rounds
Temitope Ademulere vs Akintunde Abolade
Light Heavyweight (Female) – 2×10 rounds
Aminat Yekini vs Toyin Adejumo
Lightweight – 6 rounds
Jamiu Akande vs Idowu Agbaje
Heavyweight – 4 rounds
Igbozuruzike Ezekiel (debut) vs Sadiq Adisa Akano
Cruiserweight – 4 rounds
Nwali Ugochukwu Jeremiah vs Rasak Saidi
Middleweight – 6 rounds
Sunday Abayomi Ojugbele vs Samuel Ojugbele
Cruiserweight – 6 rounds
Kosisochukwu Anajekwu vs Kadima Stephen
Event organiser Akiri said the December showcase aims not only to highlight Ibeabuchi’s historic pursuit, but to “build a strong night of local talent.”
