Eubank want boxing revival in Nigeria

FORMER boxing champion, Chris Eubank, has urged the Nigeria’s sporting authorities to revive boxing and other multi-medal sports so as to return the nation to an enviable position in world sports.

Eubank, a former British boxer who held world titles at middleweight and super middleweight classes, argued that Nigeria gained world acclaim in boxing before football.

“Nigeria did not become a football power house in the world until recently, but before independence in 1960, Nigerians were world champions in boxing,” Eubank said.

“At all levels in Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth boxing championships, everybody dreaded Nigerian boxers, but not anymore. Nigeria is no longer a force, even on the African continent.”

Eubank, undefeated in his first ten years as a professional, and remained undefeated at middleweight class, said talents abound in Nigeria.

“If Nigeria starts a developmental programme today, within five years, they would produce boxers that could rule the world. They have the natural talents, all they need is local competitions that will identify the young talents at a very early age. With the right coaching tutorials and sports science, these talents could rule the world.”

Eubank said it is sad that Nigerian boxers were not anywhere near the podium at the last Commonwealth Games in Scotland.

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The Londoner, who has contributed to the development of boxing in some African countries, has offered to assist Nigeria whenever he is called upon.

“I know the talents are in Nigeria, and am ready to help the country whenever they need my assistance to help revive the sport,” he said.