The first day of October will witness a significant boxing spectacle in Nigeria, as former WBA light heavyweight titleholder Rocky Fielding steps into the ring against the formidable cruiserweight contender Brandon Glanton. This highly anticipated bout forms the centerpiece of an event poised to captivate audiences and celebrate Nigerian Independence Day with athletic prowess.
This grand boxing show is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the renowned former 140lbs champion Amir Khan, working in conjunction with Dr. Ezekiel Adamu’s Balmoral Group Promotions. Their partnership aims to elevate the sport within Nigeria and provide a platform for both established and rising stars.
Beyond the main event, the fight card boasts several other familiar and exciting names. Fans can look forward to seeing light heavyweight contender Dan Azeez, the decorated former champion Richard Commey, and the captivating ex-soldier Elvis Ahorgah, all ready to showcase their skills and compete on this momentous occasion.
The event's global reach is confirmed with its broadcast on DAZN, ensuring boxing enthusiasts worldwide can tune in. This significant undertaking is also proudly supported by the National Sports Commission of Nigeria, underlining its importance for national sports development and international recognition.
Brandon Glanton, with a professional record of 20 wins and 3 losses, including 17 knockouts, is eager to rebound from his recent decision defeat to former WBO cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith in April. He views this fight as a crucial opportunity to assert his position at the pinnacle of the cruiserweight division.
After a three-year hiatus from competitive boxing, Liverpool's Rocky Fielding, aged 38, boasting a record of 30 wins and 3 losses with 18 knockouts, is making his highly anticipated return. His last notable fight was a loss to Canelo Alvarez in 2018, followed by a stoppage defeat to Azeez in 2022. Fielding is determined to reclaim his place among the elite.
Both Glanton and Fielding have expressed their strong intentions for the upcoming fight. Glanton stated his desire to settle scores and prove his mettle, anticipating an explosive encounter due to their contrasting styles. Fielding, on the other hand, articulated his ambition to secure a world title shot by defeating Glanton, viewing the cruiserweight division as an open field ready for his dominance.
Dan Azeez, a British-Nigerian fighter with an impressive record of 21 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, including 13 knockouts, and holding former British, Commonwealth, and European titles, is set to make his debut fight on African soil. This bout holds immense personal significance for Azeez, representing a tribute to his heritage and a desire to deliver a memorable performance for his people.
The event will also feature the veteran boxer Richard Commey, with a record of 30 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw (27 KOs), facing off against Kazakhstan's Ray Seitzhanov, who holds a record of 13 wins and 1 loss (9 KOs). Additionally, the always entertaining Elvis Ahorgah, with 14 wins and 4 losses (13 KOs), will be part of the exciting lineup.
Dr. Adamu, CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, emphasized the historical importance of this fight night for African boxing, highlighting the pride in showcasing Nigeria's talent and passion on a global stage. Amir Khan echoed this sentiment, expressing his excitement to bring world-class boxing to Nigeria for the first time and inspire a new generation of fighters.
The event also features promising local talent, with Nigeria's lightweight Basit Adebayo, undefeated at 9-0 (4 KOs), set to challenge Tanzania’s Tony Rashid, 17-4-3 (11 KOs), for the WBO Africa Title. Another exciting bout includes the undefeated junior welterweight Kerem Ozman (5-0) facing the formidable Tosin Osaigbovo (12-0, 8 KOs), along with the appearance of undefeated lightweight Yusuf Adeniji (12-0, 10 KOs).