Riding high on a 10-fight win streak, Nigerian-born heavyweight Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (15-2-1, 13 KOs) is calling out the boxing world.

At 31 years old, the Phoenix-based southpaw believes top contenders are avoiding him—not because of rankings, but out of fear.

“I think they’re scared of me,” Ibeh said. “When I was underrated, my phone rang more. Now that I’m winning and dangerous, nobody wants to risk it. But I want the challenge. I want my shot—my seat at the table—because becoming a world champion has always been my dream.”

A member of the talent-packed Toro Promotions stable, Ibeh has gone undefeated for four years. Despite that momentum, marquee opponents remain elusive.

It’s not hard to see why some hesitate. Ibeh stands 6’4” and weighs a solid 285 pounds. A former professional and college football player, he combines rare athleticism with raw power—traits that make him an unpredictable and dangerous foe in the ring.

A Heavyweight with a Point to Prove

Ibeh isn’t shy about naming names. He’s eager for high-profile matchups and hungry for redemption.

“I’d love a fight with Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller. I’ve also been chasing a rematch with Guido Vianello—I believe I won our first fight, even though it was ruled a draw. And I’d smash Richard Torrez in five rounds. Usyk is obviously number one, but I’m ready for any of them. We even got a call about fighting Fabio Wardley, but it didn’t happen. Joseph Parker is someone I admire—I’d love to face him, too.”

Ibeh’s brand manager and media strategist, Maca (aka “Maca Magic”), believes the time is coming soon.

“There’s a real hesitance to face a southpaw this size,” Maca said. “But things are changing. Since COVID, boxing has shifted—social media has become just as important as rankings. The fans want excitement, especially in the heavyweight division. We’re building Kingsley’s brand brick by brick. He won’t be avoided much longer. He’s going to be a star.”

From the Gridiron to the Ring

Ibeh still carries the same frame he had during his football career at Washburn University (Topeka, KS) and with the Calgary Stampeders in the CFL. That background, he says, gives him a unique edge in boxing.

“Being this big is a blessing and a curse,” Ibeh explained. “I’ve always been naturally strong—I don’t even use supplements. Football gave me toughness. Linemen take hits on every play, and I bring that mindset to boxing. I actually like getting hit. My movement, my footwork—that all comes from football drills. I still use those in training.”

A Legacy to Live Up To

Boxing runs in Ibeh’s blood. His cousin is none other than Nigerian heavyweight standout Ike Ibeabuchi (20-0, 15 KOs), whose career ended abruptly in the late 1990s.

“I didn’t know about Ike until I saw him fight live. That moment changed everything for me,” Ibeh shared. “My uncle told me we were related, and I knew then that I wanted to box.”

Now a more seasoned, refined fighter than he was four years ago, Ibeh is ready to step into the spotlight.

“It’s time,” he said. “I’ve paid my dues. I’m smarter, better, and more prepared than ever. I’m not just chasing belts—I’m chasing greatness.”

Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh is no longer a prospect. He’s a problem. And he’s coming for the heavyweight throne.#