Controversy Over As UBO African Belt Handed Over To Nigeria

By: Gyang Dakwo

Finally the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) has received the Universal Boxing Organisation (UBO) African Belt won by Idowu “ID Buster” Rasheed from the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), according to a statement from the NBBofC.

This comes after the Universal Boxing Organisation (UBO) declared Nigerian boxer Idowu Rasheed winner of the Africa Light Heavyweight title, held on Saturday, April 13, in Accra.

Rasheed knocked down Ghana’s Bastie Samir in round two of their fight, with the Ghanaian failing to respond to the count.

However under controversial circumstances, the fight was later declared as a technical draw amidst protests from the Nigerian corner.

According to the officials, there was an illegal blow from Rasheed, hence the decision.

The UBO after thorough review of the fight declared the Nigerian the winner saying that they did not see any illegal blows from Rasheed.

“Since we can’t see that Rasheed did anything wrong, that he was in fact a victim of a blatant injustice and put on an amazing performance, we feel it is only right that he is recognized as the UBO Africa Light Heavyweight champion,” the UBO stated.

The NBBofC further disclosed that upon receipt of the championship belt, the Ibadan-based Idowu Rasheed would be decorated by the Oyo State Governor.