Nigerian elite boxer Patricia Mbata has expressed delight after clinching gold in the 70kg category at the Commonwealth Games National Open Boxing Trials held in Lagos.
Mbata secured the title after defeating fellow Nigerian boxer Blessing Orakwe, avenging her earlier defeat to Orakwe at the National Sports Festival.
Reacting after her victory, Mbata described the win as an important moment in her career and a confirmation that she deserves a place in the national boxing team.
“I’m very happy with this victory because it shows that I deserve to be in the national team,” Mbata said.
The boxer acknowledged the quality of her opponent, praising Orakwe as one of the most talented fighters in the country.
“Blessing Orakwe is one of the finest boxers we have in Nigeria and fighting her is always a challenge,” she added.
According to Mbata, the victory represents redemption after losing their previous encounter and serves as motivation to continue working hard ahead of upcoming international competitions.
“This win means a lot to me because it helped me avenge my earlier loss,” she explained.
Mbata also emphasised her ambition to represent Nigeria on the international stage and make the country proud in global competitions.
“My goal is to represent Nigeria internationally and inspire other young boxers,” she stated.
The boxer stressed that discipline, consistent training and proper preparation remain key factors in achieving success in the sport.
“You have to remain disciplined, train consistently and prepare well if you want to succeed,” she noted.
The Commonwealth Games trials featured numerous fighters from across Nigeria competing for places in the national team ahead of the next Commonwealth Games, with Mbata emerging as one of the standout performers in the competition.
