Olaide “Fijaborn” Fijabi and Oto “Joeboy” Joseph have remained unbeaten since turning pro in 2015. In that period, they have shown that they are capable of becoming world-beaters based on their rising profile in the professional ranks.
For Wahid Oshodi, the chairman of WEO AllSports, the management company looking after the boxers, the pugilists are quite capable of extending their dominance to the world stage.
Speaking ahead of the 12th edition of the GOtv Boxing Night on October 1, Oshodi says the boxers are in good hands as they are being tutored by one of the most experienced and successful coaches in Africa, Joe Mensah. He believes that this would put them in good shape for the challenges on Independence Day.
“I have no doubt in the abilities of Otto and Fijabi because they have shown that they can grow to be world beaters. Throughout their sojourn in the amateur ranks they showed they have what it takes to get to the top.
“Apart from Fijabi, who had only one split decision in all his eight bouts, the two boxers have indeed lived up to expectations with their mesmerizing skills and punching power, which stands them out of the crowd.
Fijabi’s Tyson like explosive punching power has made him a crowd favorite, while Otto Joseph’s ring craft is quite astounding for such a young talent. They go into the ring not only to fight but also entertain their fans. I am sure they know what is ahead of them and they are indeed working hard to make Nigerians proud come October 1,” he said.
Oshodi revealed that the boxers have been given the necessary support to do well, just as he pledged that more boxers would emerge from the stable of WEO AllSports in the near future.
For the encounter, Otto will be battling for the 10-round Commonwealth Africa Lightweight title against South Africa’s Yule Dillion, who also has had five bouts with three knockouts since turning pro in 2015. The Cape Town-based boxer will be aiming for the title in his sixth bout.
Fijabi will face a daunting task, as he will be aiming to retain his West African Light Welterweight title against an experienced Ghanaian boxer, Ben “Congo Soldier” Ankrah. The Ghanaian pugilist turned pro in 2001 and has had 38 fights. The experienced boxer will prove a tough test for Fijabi (Born to Box as his fans like to call him).
