Amir Khan is bringing boxing to Nigeria and he’s promising fireworks.
The former world champion turned promoter has joined forces with Dr Ezekiel Adamu’s Balmoral Group Promotions to stage a blockbuster card in Lagos on October 1st, Nigerian Independence Day, with the event broadcast globally on DAZN.
Titled Chaos In The Ring, the historic night marks the first time world-class boxing will be staged in Nigeria, with Khan declaring the show will ‘inspire a new generation’ and shine a spotlight on African boxing talent alongside international stars.
And at the top of the bill, it’s a clash guaranteed to set pulses racing. American puncher Brandon Glanton (20-3, 17 KOs) takes on Liverpool‘s returning Rocky Fielding (30-3, 18 KOs) in a high-stakes cruiserweight battle.
Fielding, who once shared the ring with Canelo Alvarez and has faced elite Brits Callum Smith and John Ryder, is back after three years out, insisting: ‘I’m back with fire. Beating Glanton in Lagos will show everyone I’m ready for a world title shot. The cruiserweight division is wide open – and I’m coming for it all.’
But Glanton, who last fought Chris Billam-Smith in April, warned: ‘I’m coming to Lagos to settle the score with Rocky Fielding. Our styles guarantee fireworks, and I’m ready to prove I belong at the top of the cruiserweight division. This fight is my chance to show the world what I’m capable of.’
Amir Khan (pictured above) is bringing boxing to Nigeria and he’s promising fireworks
The Lagos show on October 1 isn’t just about the headline fight. Fans will be treated to a stacked undercard featuring some of the biggest names in African and British boxing.
Ghana’s former IBF world champion Richard Commey (30-5-1, 27 KOs) who has shared the ring with Vasyl Lomachenko and Teofimo Lopez – returns in a must-win clash against rising prospect Ray Seitzhanov (13-1, 9 KOs).
Dan Azeez (21-2-1, 13 KOs), the former British, Commonwealth and European champion, will fulfil a lifelong dream by fighting in Nigeria for the first time.
He said: ‘Fighting in Nigeria on Independence Day is a dream come true. This is for my heritage, my people, and my pride. I’m ready to put on a show and honor Nigeria with every punch I throw.’
Viral Ghanaian sensation Elvis ‘The Soldier’ Ahorgah (14-4, 13 KOs) also features, as does unbeaten Nigerian prospect Basit Adebayo (9-0, 4 KOs) who will face Tanzania’s Tony Rashid (17-4-3, 11 KOs) for the WBO Africa title.
Also putting their unbeaten records on the line: Kerem Ozman (5-0) takes on Tosin Osaigbovo (12-0, 8 KOs), while Nigeria’s own Yusuf Adeniji (12-0, 10 KOs) will look to extend his knockout streak.
For Khan, who has already enjoyed global success as both a fighter and now promoter, the Lagos event is about more than just boxing.
‘I’m thrilled to bring world-class boxing and the world’s eyes onto Nigeria for the first time,’ Khan said. ‘This is about inspiring a new generation and showcasing the heart and skill of Nigerian fighters alongside international stars. Lagos is ready to shine.’
Dr Ezekiel Adamu, CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, added: ‘This historic fight night marks a monumental moment for African boxing.
‘We’re proud to showcase Nigeria’s immense talent and passion to the world, celebrating our heritage on a global stage.’
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Amir Khan unveils historic Lagos fight night as he promotes first major boxing card in Nigeria just months after Ghana event as he looks to take over Africa