Stakeholders Fume Over NBF’s Professional Boxing Ambitions

The Nigerian boxing community is in disarray amid reports that the Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF) is considering regulating professional boxing, a role traditionally and legally held by the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C).

This potential move has sparked widespread concern among stakeholders, who are urging the National Sports Commission to intervene impartially.

Akin Olusola, a professional boxer based in Ondo State, expressed his shock at the development, highlighting the distinct differences between amateur and professional boxing.

“There is a difference between pro boxing and amateur boxing. The NBF should be busy with its developmental role, identifying hidden talents, while the NBB of C should be staging the fights for the big boys,” he stated.

A Lagos-based promoter, who wished to remain anonymous, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the NBF should focus on amateur development. “The professionals know what to do, and they paid their dues as amateurs, but the amateurs are still under the umbrella of guardians from here and there. The NBB of C is responsible for staging big fights to help the pros earn money. I am a promoter, and I know that is how it is done all over the world. Nigeria cannot be different,” he asserted.

In response to the growing speculation, the NBB of C has vehemently rejected the reports, branding them as misleading and potentially disruptive.

In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Board reiterated its position as the sole recognised body responsible for the regulation, control, and sanctioning of professional boxing across Nigeria.

“The attention of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control has been drawn to insinuations that another body intends to assume regulatory authority over professional boxing in Nigeria. We wish to categorically state that such claims are unfounded and should be disregarded,” the statement read.

The NBB of C further clarified that the NBF’s mandate is strictly limited to amateur boxing, aligning with international sporting structures. The Board also cautioned all stakeholders, including promoters, managers, and boxers, against engaging with unauthorised entities purporting to exercise regulatory powers.

“We advise all promoters, managers, and boxers to remain vigilant and not be misled by such insinuations. The NBB of C remains fully committed to its responsibility of regulating and sanctioning professional boxing in Nigeria in accordance with established rules and international best practices,” the statement concluded.