Alaafin Boxing Club Opens Soon

Undefeated former African Junior Lightweight champion, Hakeem Ishola Animashaun, in his bid to show appreciation to the Alaafin of Oyo, HRM, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi, has concluded plans to open a boxing club in honour of the royal father.

Animashaun, a serving Policeman with the Force Intelligence Bureau, FIB in Obalende, Lagos, says the gesture is to appreciate Oba Adeyemi for assisting him during his days in the ring.

Animashaun, who defeated Ghana’s Sam Awkromah in 1991 to become the African champion, disclosed that plans are in top gear to open the gym, which will be named ‘Alaafin Boxing Club’ ABC in Shitta, Surulere, Lagos.

The Bendel ’79 Sports Festival gold medalist hinted that when the gym is opened it would compete with other gyms that have been in existence based on the facilities, technical ability of coaches like Daniel Uloko that would tutor the 14 boxers in the club.

The All Nigeria Technical School Games, Kano 81 gold medalist however urged the Nigerian boxing fraternity to honour former national Chief coach, late Archie Moore for his contribution to the sport during his lifetime.

Animashaun also extended his thanks to the Nigerian Police, including ACP Anderson Bankole for supporting his career.