Fola Badmus

Anthony Joshua plans to activate rematch clause against Dubois 

Eddie Hearn has revealed the identity of Anthony Joshua’s next opponent in the wake of his shock knockout by Daniel Dubois. Joshua was knocked out in the fifth round at Wembley in front of 96,000 fans at Wembley by the 27-year-old Brit. Dubois retained his IBF heavyweight title with an impressive victory, knocking down his challenger four times. Despite the disappointing outcome on Saturday and suggestions in some quarters that he should retire, Joshua is already looking ahead to his next fight. After the fight Hearn was asked about what the next steps are for Joshua, 34.  Hearn disclosed that there is a rematch clause for Joshua to face Dubois again and added that it is likely to be activated.  Speaking to DAZN, Hearn said: ‘I’m sure he’ll exercise that rematch clause, I think that’s a given. He’ll need a rest and it’s a dangerous fight. This guy’s growing in confidence all the time.  ‘He’ll believe he can hurt Dubois. He’ll believe he can beat him, but full credit to Daniel Dubois, he deserves all the credit tonight. It was a great performance from Daniel.’  Following his defeat, Joshua admitted that he wanted to ‘kick off’ in the ring. He said: ‘Credit to him and his team. We rolled the dice of success, but we came up short. ‘You know I’m ready to kick off in the ring, but I’m going to keep my cool, keep very professional, and give respect to my opponent. ‘I’m always saying to myself I’m a fighter for life… We keep rolling the dice. ‘I had a sharp opponent, a fast opponent and a lot of mistakes from my end, but that’s the game.’

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Dubois demolishes Joshua in ‘Battle of Britain’ to retain title

Britain’s Daniel Dubois demolished compatriot and two-times world champion Anthony Joshua with a fifth-round knockout to retain his IBF world heavyweight boxing title at a packed Wembley Stadium. Dubois sent his fellow Briton to the canvas in the opening round with a stinging right, the referee delivering a standing eight count, and the 27-year-old proceeded to tear up the pre-fight predictions as swiftly as he ripped into his opponent. Joshua was on the ropes again in round two but managed to ride out the storm before round three came crashing down around him again. With Dubois landing more banging right-handers, Joshua’s defence failed to protect him and he was literally on the ropes as he took another count. Joshua could barely stand at the end of the fourth, after going down again with two minutes remaining, and he lasted just 59 seconds of the fifth with the rebuilding of his career suddenly in ruins. “I’ve only got a few words to say: Are you not entertained?,” declared Dubois after the biggest win of his career. “I’m a gladiator, I’m a warrior to the bitter end. I want to get to the top level of this game and reach my full potential. “I’ve been on a rollercoaster ride. This is my time, this is my redemption story, and I’m not going to stop until I reach my full potential.” Organisers said a British post-World War II record of 96,000 spectators attended the fight at London’s Wembley Stadium.

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UK-based boxer Arenyeka tips Joshua to beat Dubois

United Kingdom-based Nigerian boxer Eworitse Ezra Arenyeka has tipped Anthony Joshua to stream roll Daniel Dubois in their face off for the IBF World title today. Arenyeka, whose fought Ben Whittaker in June believed Joshua has what it takes to triumph over his opponent.  “Yeah, AJ versus Daniel Dubois, it is going to be a tough fight.  “Daniel Dubois in the last two fights was really looking great, same with AJ. He’s really found new form.  “Dan Dubois got the dynamite and same as AJ, so let’s see how it plays out.  “For me, I’ve got my home boy, AJ. So I think AJ is going to do the business. It’s going to be a great night of boxing.  “It’s not going to be easy but I believe AJ wins in the late rounds. May be eight or the ninth round,” Arenyeka opined.  Arenyeka currently competes in the light-heavyweight division.  In 2019, he won the ABA’s Elite Cruiserweight Eastern Counties Championships and in 2022, he won the Nigerian Super Middleweight Title.

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Tinubu pens to First Lady on her 64th birthday

President Bola Tinubu penned an emotional message to the First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on her 64th birthday.  Tinubu expressed his goodwill message on his official X handle.  The elated Nigerian president wrote; “My Dearest Oluremi, “On this beautiful day, as we celebrate your 64th birthday, my heart is full of gratitude and love for the incredible woman you are. Since we began this journey together, you have been my rock, confidante, greatest supporter, and the love of my life. Every step of the way, you have shown unwavering strength, grace, and love to me, our family, and our beloved nation, Nigeria. “You are the heart of our home, the light guiding me through the most challenging days, and the embodiment of kindness and wisdom. Your compassion, generosity, and dedication inspire millions of Nigerians and me, especially our young women, who look up to you as their First Lady. “On your special day, I want to take a moment to tell you how truly blessed I feel to walk this path beside you. Your love sustains me, wisdom guides me, and strength lifts me. I could not ask for a better partner to share the triumphs and trials of life. “As you turn 64, I wish you nothing but boundless joy, peace, and happiness. May this year unfold with blessings, laughter, and cherished moments you so richly deserve. I look forward to all the moments we will create together in the years to come. “With all my love and appreciation, now and always, “Yours Bola.”

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Edo election: Okpebholo’s disqualification is fake news

In the final hours to the Edo State Gubernatorial Election scheduled to be held tomorrow Saturday, September 21, 2024, certain political parties  have desperately resorted to forgery, disinformation and blackmail by circulating a fake Magistrate court ruling purportedly disqualifying Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC Gubernatorial Candidate in the election.  The circulated ruling is fake, a fabrication and an act of pure desperation in the face of their imminent defeat at the polls. The Magistrate Court that purportedly issued the FAKE RULING has issued a disclaimer stating categorically that the FAKE RULING did not emanate from that court.  The fake news meant to sow seeds of doubt about the APC candidate is a blatant and calculated attempt to subvert the will of the Edo electorate and must be thoroughly rejected by the good and discerning people of Edo State. This illegal and underhand tactic of the parties involved constitutes a despicable attack on our electoral democracy. We call on our law enforcement agencies to identify, investigate and bring the perpetrators swiftly to justice. “We urge voters in Edo State to remain vigilant and resolute in the exercise of their democratic rights at tomorrow’s polls.  “We trust that the  Edo people will reject this and other illegal devices by desperate candidates and their parties to subvert this important election. “Senator Monday Okpebholo is, and remains, the standard bearer of the APC in tomorrow’s Edo State Gubernatorial Election,” Felix Narka, the National Publicity Secretary of APC affirmed. 

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Ex-Super Eagles’ goalie bags coaching certificate 

Former Super Eagles and Enyimba FC of Aba goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba is now a certified coach.  The Kwara United FC goalkeeper became a certified coach after the completion of his coaching course at the National Institute For Sports (NIS). Aiyenugba returned to Nigeria ahead of the 2020-21 season to play for Kwara United after 13 seasons in Israel with four teams. His son, Daniel Aiyenugba, is also a goalkeeper. The two played against each other when Kwara United played against Beyond Limits in the semi-finals of the Value Jet Cup in Ikenne, in August 2023.

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DJ Cuppy to compere 2024 UNGA opening ceremony 

Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy is billed to host the 79th United Nations General Assembly session opening ceremony in New York. Nigerian businessman Femi Otedola, who is the father of the entertainer, Mr. Femi Otedola revealed this on his X handle on Friday.  “Join our @cuppymusic today LIVE at the United Nations Headquarters as she hosts the opening ceremony of UNGA 2024!,” Otedola revealed.  The opening ceremony is slated to begin 1pm New York time.  The opening session aims to ignite inspiration and action to advance meaningful youth participation in the UN and beyond – as an issue relevant and important to all sectors and actors.  Through keynote speeches from diverse set of representatives, speakers will highlight the role of young people in driving positive change across sectors and broader society.

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Edo election: IG orders movement restrictions

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process during the upcoming Edo off-cycle election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024. In preparation for the election, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day. Exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders. To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorized security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters. Furthermore, the IGP has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all. Egbetokun, through the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Emeka Mba, mni, has appealed to citizens to refrain from making prank calls to control room and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes. The designated election lines for inquiries and reporting are: DIG Election DIG Frank Mba, mni; 07025000383 and AIG Election AIG Benneth Igwe, mni; 09085000029, while the general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272. The already activated joint control room is manned by police and relevant agencies engaged in the electoral process. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or incidents that may jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process or cause disorderliness in any part of the state.  The Inspector-General of Police underscored the necessity of adhering to these directives to avert any undue interference and intimidation during the election. Political parties, candidates, and their supporters are urged to conduct themselves responsibly and in compliance with electoral laws, as any violations or attempts to disrupt the electoral process will be met with the full extent of the law. The IGP reaffirmed that the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to promoting a safe and democratic environment. Through collaborative efforts, we can guarantee that the forthcoming elections in Edo, specifically and the future, are held fairly and peacefully.

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