Taiwo ‘Esepo’ Agbaje claimed the WBA Africa lightweight title with a unanimous decision over Tosin ‘Sojar Boy’ Osaigbovo at a packed indoor sports hall in Surulere, Lagos.

The bout delivered drama, as Mr Agbaje fought relentlessly in spite of boldly predicting a seventh-round knockout before the contest.

Agbaje forfeited his N2 million wager after failing to stop Mr Osaigbovo in the seventh round, a prediction he had publicly declared before the fight.

In a show reminiscent of Muhammad Ali, Agbaje named the decisive round in advance and staked part of his purse on the outcome.

The contest, however, went the full 10-round distance.

Mr Agbaje dominated much of the fight, trading punches evenly with Osaigbovo, as judges returned a unanimous verdict in his favour.

The electrifying encounter thrilled a capacity crowd, with fans filling every seat and standing in aisles throughout the contest.

At the final bell, judges confirmed Agbaje as the new champion, extending his unbeaten record to 19-0.

In spite of the victory, the anticipated knockout never materialised, costing him the N2 million wager.

The charged atmosphere reflected both fighters’ popularity, with sustained cheers echoing across the arena from start to finish.

Mr Osaigbovo added flair, repeatedly sticking out his tongue during exchanges, drawing loud reactions from the crowd.

The bout was promoted by De Lad’s Boxing Promotion and sanctioned by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control.

Promoter Wahid Alabi described the event as a landmark moment for Nigerian professional boxing.

He said, “The turnout validates the long wait to match these two fighters.”

Tunji Aderibigbe, Ariya Networks director of production, said, “The event exceeded expectations and strengthens our commitment to investing in Nigerian boxing.”

NBBofC secretary-general, Remi Aboderin, said the contest showcased the board’s developmental strides.

“This was a fine advertisement for professional boxing in Nigeria. Two unbeaten fighters, a full house and a clean contest — that is what we aim to deliver,” he said.

The WBA Africa title is a regional belt under the World Boxing Association, serving as a pathway to global ranking opportunities.

Nigerian fighters have remained strong contenders in the lightweight and super lightweight divisions at both regional and world levels.

(NAN)