By China Acheru
The rhythmic thud of gloves against punching bags, the electric energy of young fighters sizing each other up, the roar of the crowd as two boxers clash in the ring—this is the scene at the Niger Delta Sports Festival boxing event. where raw potential meets opportunity.
Osifo Moses Vice President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation and head coach of Ondo State’s boxing team, and he told NDSF Media that he had a sharp eye for talent and decades of experience in picking the Ondo State boxing team.
Moses is on a mission: to find the future stars of Nigerian boxing.
‘We’re here to discover diamonds in the rough’
Moses couldn’t hide his excitement about the competition: “The Niger Delta has decided to host this competition to discover talents. We are happy with this.”
This isn’t just another local tournament—it’s a strategic talent hunt, meticulously organized to scout the best young fighters across the region.
Moses and his team left no stone unturned, traveling to Akoko, Owo, Okitipupa, and Ondo to handpick the most promising boxers between the ages of 18 and 23.
“We left the senior boxers at home and brought the rest here,” he revealed. Why? Because this is about unearthing fresh talent, not recycling established names.
Skill over strength: What makes a true boxer?
In a sport where knockout victories often steal the spotlight, Moses looks beyond mere wins and losses.
“Our boxers are picked based on technique,” he explained. “We know a good boxer when we see one—not necessarily because he wins a tournament. Techniques, punches, and movement are the things we are looking for.”
This means a fighter could lose a bout but still catch the scouts’ attention with flawless footwork, sharp combinations, and ring intelligence—qualities that separate champions from contenders.
A gateway to the big leagues
The stakes are high. With a national team coach in attendance, this competition isn’t just about local bragging rights—it’s a direct pathway to Nigeria’s elite boxing circles.
“One of our national coaches is here,” Moses said with pride. “I brought my boys here so they can be handpicked for greater things.”
For these young fighters, a standout performance could mean national team selection, international exposure, and even professional contracts.
This is just the beginning
Osifo Moses has a clear vision for the future: “We want this kind of competition to continue so the best in Niger Delta can be exposed.”
With the right support, events like this could transform the Niger Delta into Nigeria’s boxing powerhouse, rivalling traditional talent hubs.
