Briton Okolie to headline ‘historic’ card in Nigeria

British heavyweight boxer Lawrence Okolie is poised to make history as he headlines a major boxing event in Lagos, Nigeria, on December 19, 2025. The former cruiserweight world champion, whose parents were born in Nigeria, will compete in his first professional bout on African soil, marking a significant milestone in his career and for the sport in the region. The event, co-promoted by Queensberry’s Frank Warren and Amir Khan, aims to showcase the growing potential of boxing in Africa, one of the sport’s emerging markets. While Okolie’s opponent remains unconfirmed, the undercard features fellow Londoner David Adeleye and undefeated German heavyweight Emanuel Odiase, promising an action-packed night of boxing. This event coincides with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, which is reportedly planning a show in Ghana on December 20, with rumors of Anthony Joshua potentially fighting in either Ghana or Nigeria early next year. Okolie, with a record of 22 wins, 16 stoppages, and one loss, expressed his excitement, calling it a ‘historic moment for Africa, my family, and my career.’ Amir Khan, head of AK Promotions, emphasized the event’s significance in inspiring the next generation of African fighters, stating, ‘Lagos is about to witness something special.’ The event underscores the increasing collaboration between British promoters and African boxing talent, further solidifying Africa’s place on the global boxing stage.