FIRO promotes youth development through boxing championship

FIRO Boxing Promotion is working to help Nigerian youths through its ‘Beyond The Ropes Championship’. The organizers see boxing as a path to empowerment, jobs, and a career.

The Chairman and CEO of the promotion, Tijani Taofeek Adedamola, shared this during a press conference and face-off at New Garage, Gbagada, Lagos. This event was ahead of the tournament set for Saturday, October 24.

Boxers, the organizing team, and other guests came together, and many passersby were excited to watch.

Adedamola explained that having the event in the community is part of his goal to bring boxing closer to the people. He wants to change the idea that boxing is only for rough people.

“That’s why I’m starting from home. My first show started from Bariga, the second one is in Bariga, and now we are having our press conference in an open place in Bariga so that it can bring more people into boxing,” he said.

“We want to popularise boxing and make it very popular. We want our youths to take to boxing. Any of them who embraces the sport can realise that this is another way to become an employer of labour and a breadwinner.”

Adedamola mentioned that his organization has taken boxing programs to many states and is still spreading the campaign across Lagos. He warned young boxers not to rush into professional boxing without learning the right skills. He said FIRO is building on the efforts of past leaders and promoters, including the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, to boost Nigeria’s image in world boxing.

The President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Dr Rafiu Ladipo, praised the initiative. He called sports a great tool for community growth. He pointed out that boxing gives young talents a chance to meet scouts and promoters. The event on October 24 will also include musicians and other performers to show off the talents of Bariga. Ladipo advised boxers to be disciplined and willing to learn.

Hon. Moruf Idowu Alli-Balogun, a candidate for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Shomolu Constituency II, in the 2027 elections, also expressed support. He praised Adedamola’s dedication to grassroots sports.

Among the matches planned, Oluwatosin Adeshina, called Destiny Boy, will fight Taofeek Ganiyu, nicknamed Tear Boxer. Destiny Boy has a record of seven wins, one loss, and one draw from nine fights. He promised to put on a great show.

Aishat Oriyomi, known as AG Gold, will face Popoola Simisola, called Silent Killer. AG Gold has nine knockouts and two losses from 11 fights and says she trains every day with jogging and punching-bag work.

Taiwo Olowu, known as Gentle Boy, will take on Idris Hamzat, nicknamed Zopower. Olowu has 21 wins, four losses, and one draw from 26 fights. He mentioned that he now trains twice a day with his coach.

The tournament, approved by the NBBofC, will take place at Gbagada Girls Secondary School Stadium, Ademolu Street, Bariga.