British-Nigerian boxer Dan Azeez has called on Anthony Joshua to stage a boxing match in Nigeria, describing the idea as a “massive opportunity” that would be monumental for the country’s sporting image.
Azeez made the remarks after securing a thrilling fourth-round TKO victory over Sulaimon Adeosun at the Chaos in the Ring event held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on Independence Day.
The bout marked a homecoming for the former Commonwealth light-heavyweight champion, who fought professionally on Nigerian soil for the first time.
Speaking after his emphatic win, an emotional Azeez expressed deep pride in returning to his roots.
“Yeah, I did this in Nigeria—it’s nice. I’m so happy I did this here,” he said. “I’m back in my hometown, in Lagos. The Mobolaji Johnson Arena looks proper. They really shocked me with the setup. I’m happy to be back home and get the win.”
Azeez, who was visibly moved by the passionate Lagos crowd, added that fighting in Nigeria was more than just a sporting achievement—it was a personal dream come true.
It means so much to me to fight in Nigeria. Honestly, I would have boxed for free, I swear on my life. I’m just happy to have done it here,” he said.
Azeez Calls for Joshua’s Nigerian Bout
When asked about the possibility of Anthony Joshua fighting in Nigeria, Azeez did not hesitate to express his excitement.
“It will be great if Joshua fights here in Nigeria. I think he’ll love to. I believe he will fight somewhere in Africa, and it would be amazing if it’s in Nigeria,” he stated.
The suggestion has reignited discussions among boxing enthusiasts about hosting a major international fight in Nigeria—a move that would mark a new era for African boxing.
Historic Night for Nigerian Boxing
The Chaos in the Ring event, promoted by Amir Khan’s AK Promotions in partnership with Balmoral Group Promotions, was sanctioned by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC).
The event drew a star-studded audience, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and delivered world-class entertainment, with the main event seeing American cruiserweight Brandon Glanton knock out 2012 Olympian Marcus Browne in the sixth round.
NBBC President Rafiu Ladipo described the event as a landmark moment for Nigerian boxing.
“This event has shown that Nigeria has both the infrastructure and passion to host world-class boxing. We are ready to welcome more international fighters and showcase our country as a premier boxing destination,” Ladipo said.
NBBC General Secretary Remi Aboderin echoed the sentiment, pledging the board’s commitment to facilitating more high-profile bouts in the country.
“We have proven that we can deliver events of this magnitude. Our doors are open to promoters and fighters who want to be part of Nigeria’s boxing renaissance. The success of this event is just the beginning,” he stated.
Plans for a Heavyweight Title Fight in Nigeria
The Chief Executive Officer of Balmoral Group Promotions, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, also announced plans to stage a major heavyweight title fight in Nigeria in December.
Adamu challenged top Nigerian-bred heavyweights—Moses Itauma, David Adeleye, and Lawrence Okolie—to headline what he described as a “historic fight on home soil.”
“Nigeria has proven it can host world-class boxing, and the December fight will be another big step. We want to see our own heavyweights headline an unforgettable night in front of their people,” Adamu said.
Azeez’s Emotional Homecoming
For Dan Azeez, the Lagos victory was more than just another win on his professional record—it was a powerful reminder of his heritage and a connection to his roots.
The 35-year-old, known for his relentless energy and discipline in the ring, left Nigeria as a child and rose through the ranks in British boxing to become a Commonwealth, British, and European light-heavyweight champion. His return home was, in many ways, a full-circle moment.
“Now, it’s time to move on to bigger and better things—whether that’s in Nigeria, the UK, or elsewhere,” he said. “But this one, fighting in Nigeria, will always be special to me.”
As Nigeria’s boxing scene continues to grow, Azeez’s homecoming win and his call for Anthony Joshua to fight in Lagos could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s sporting story—a chapter that blends heritage, pride, and world-class talent.
