Renowned Nigerian boxer, Bashiru Ali, popularly known as Bash Ali, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the prolonged delay of his Guinness World Record Boxing Championship fight, which was initially planned to be hosted in Nigeria.
In an open letter addressed to the president, Bash Ali accused the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) of stalling the historic event due to corruption, despite the reported advance payment of $12 million and alleged extortion of millions of naira.
According to the former world champion, his fight would be the first Guinness World Record Boxing Championship held outside the United States and could generate significant revenue for Nigeria through Pay-Per-View sales, sponsorships, and advertisements.
He lamented that over the past 19 years, various administrations have repeatedly inaugurated the Bash Ali Boxing Project Local Organizing Committee, yet the event has failed to materialize due to bureaucratic bottlenecks and alleged corrupt practices.
Bash Ali stated that he has refused multiple offers to host the fight in other countries, insisting on bringing the event to Nigeria to boost the nation’s global sporting reputation. However, after what he described as extortion and blackmail by government officials, he has now taken legal action against the Federal Government. The case is set for hearing on April 7, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja.
In his appeal to President Tinubu, the boxing legend requested an out-of-court settlement and the immediate reconstitution of the event’s organizing committee. He urged the government to clear all obstacles preventing the fight’s execution, emphasizing that the Federal Government is not required to contribute funds but only to provide an enabling environment.
“This historic fight is not just about me; it is about Nigeria’s global image and the opportunities it presents. I urge Mr. President to act swiftly and ensure that corruption does not kill this dream,” Bash Ali stated.
As the court date approaches, all eyes will be on the government’s response to his demands and whether Nigeria will finally host this landmark boxing event.
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