On October 11, 2015, Edo state – born professional boxer, Stanley Eribo who goes with the ring name “Edo-boy”, will take a shot at a national title fight in Lagos.
According to a statement endorsed by the General-Secretary of Nigerian Boxing Board of Control, Remi Aboderin, Stanley Eribo is the mandatory challenger for the Light-Welterweight title of Nigeria currently held by policeman Sadiq Ahmed.
The fight which is Edo-boy’s first national title fight, promises to usher a moment of glory not only for the boxer but Edo state in general.
Stanley turned professional in 2011 after a successful amateur career with the Edo State Sports Council.
He has had eleven professional appearances, winning all the eleven fights; six via knockout and five by points.
Stanley believes that the proposed light-welterweight title fight between him and the champion, Sadiq Ahmed, would be a tough fight.
This is why he is appealing to the sports-loving people of Edo State to give him the needed support.
“This is one of those moments and opportunity that I have been waiting for to prove myself and bring honour and glory to Edo state.
“The champion, Sadiq Ahmed is a policeman. That means he has the support of the police command. I need the support of my people here in Edo state.
“I need financial support to enable me prepare very well for the fight. Since the NBB of C announced the title fight, I have intensified my training on a daily basis. Of course, this means me burning more calories daily. So, I need to equip myself well and this requires money”. he told OBSERVER sports in a brief chat yesterday.
On his prospect of wresting the title from the champion, Stanley sounded very optimistic
“I know Sadiq is the champion, he has tremendous support from the police and he is also more exposed than me, but one thing is sure. I am a hungry fighter seeking for glory. I have the heart and the skill in the ring to beat the champion.
“I just need the support of my people here in Edo state; I need their money and their prayers. This is my moment and it is also a moment of glory for Edo people”.