Sports

Zelensky, Klitschko brothers salute Usyk on heavyweight glory

Published

10 months ago

May 20, 2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky led the tributes to Oleksandr Usyk after his historic victory over British fighter Tyson Fury in Riyadh, making Usyk the first undisputed world heavyweight boxing champion in 25 years. The 37-year-old, who briefly served in the Ukrainian army following the Russian invasion in February 2022, described his points victory as a significant moment for himself, his family, and his country.

Zelensky praised Usyk on Telegram, emphasizing that Ukrainians fight hard and ultimately triumph over their opponents. He highlighted that Usyk’s achievement of holding four heavyweight belts simultaneously is a testament to Ukrainian endurance and strength, symbolizing victory for the war-torn nation.

Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kiev and a former world heavyweight champion, also lauded Usyk, noting that his victory demonstrated Ukrainians’ ability to overcome strong adversaries in challenging circumstances. Vitali’s brother, Wladimir Klitschko, another former heavyweight champion, was present ringside in Saudi Arabia and echoed his sibling’s sentiments. He acknowledged the immense pressure Usyk faced and commended his performance against Fury, declaring Usyk the best fighter in modern history and expressing pride in their shared Ukrainian heritage.

Usyk, born in Simferopol, Crimea, faced criticism from Ukrainians in 2014 for his neutral stance on Russia’s annexation of the peninsula and for stating that Russians and Ukrainians were the same people. However, following Russia’s 2022 invasion, Usyk’s support for Ukraine became unequivocal, earning him the backing of the Ukrainian armed forces. Mikola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, stated that Usyk’s victory highlighted Ukraine’s strength and determination in defending its identity, language, culture, and traditions. A fighting unit also expressed their support with a message celebrating Ukraine and its defenders.

Television presenter and actor Sergiy Prytula viewed Usyk’s triumph as a morale booster for the entire nation, equating his win to a victory for Ukraine. Eurovision Song Contest winner Jamala expressed pride in Usyk’s accomplishment with a heartfelt message of gratitude.

By securing the WBC title from Fury in addition to his WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, Usyk became the first boxer to be the undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis defeated Evander Holyfield in 1999.

Sports

JUST IN: Super Eagles revive World Cup hopes with 2-0 victory over Rwanda

Published

6 days ago

March 21, 2025

Charles Flames

Nigeria boosted their 2026 World Cup qualifying hopes with a 2-0 win over Rwanda on Friday night, marking a successful debut for new head coach, Eric Chelle.

Victor Osimhen, in fine form this season for Galatasaray, delivered a first-half brace to secure the victory.

The prolific striker opened the scoring with a side-footed finish from Ademola Lookman’s well-placed free-kick.

He then doubled Nigeria’s lead after winning the ball at the halfway line and chipping it over the goalkeeper.

The three-time African champions now move up to third place in Group C, following South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho.

Chelle’s men will face Zimbabwe on Monday as they continue their quest for World Cup qualification.

Sports

Nigeria Set To Host ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Qualifiers in April

Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.

Published

2 weeks ago

March 17, 2025

OCHEFA

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), said it is ready to host five other nations for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Men’s World Cup African Qualifier.

The tournament is billed for Lagos, with the matches to be held at the cricket ovals at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) from March 26th – 6th April.

VON reported that the President of the federation, Uyi Akpata, said in a statement that the tournament is about celebrating the growth of the game on the continent. Nigeria is thrilled to welcome these talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos,” Akpata said.

“Our nation is known for its warm hospitality and fascinating cricketing potential and we are committed to making this qualifier a memorable experience for all.”

“This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the growth of cricket in Africa and inspiring the next generation of players.”

Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will be hoping to secure the ticket, having achieved same feat in 2019 and competing at the World Cup in South Africa 2020.

Sports

Nigeria Sets to Host CAVB 2025 Women’s African Club Volleyball Championship

With this hosting right secured, Nigeria is set to welcome elite volleyball clubs from across the continent, further positioning the country as a key player in African sports

Published

2 weeks ago

March 17, 2025

OCHEFA

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Honourable Bukola Olopade has expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, for the exceptional support received in securing the hosting rights for the CAVB 2025 Women’s African Club Volleyball Championship, scheduled to take place in Abuja from 1 to 14 April 2025.

In a letter of appreciation, personally signed by the DG and sent to the CGC, he acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in covering the bidding fees.

The gesture was described as a testament to the unwavering commitment to the growth of volleyball in Nigeria.

“At a time when sports development in Nigeria requires critical support, this proactive intervention has made a significant impact.

The dedication of resources and efforts to ensure that the prestigious championship is held in Nigeria is a rare demonstration of service and commitment to national sports development,” the DG stated.

He further remarked: “With this hosting right secured, Nigeria is set to welcome elite volleyball clubs from across the continent, further positioning the country as a key player in African sports.”

The Commission reaffirmed its readiness to work collaboratively in shaping sustainable sports development strategies that align with contemporary global trends.

While extending warm sporting regards to the CGC, the DG reiterated the Commission’s pride in being associated with the Nigeria Customs Service and all stakeholders who share the vision of advancing Nigerian sports on the international stage