De Lad’s Boxing sets African attendance record

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•As Sojarboy vsScorpion rematch builds momentum

Following the successful staging of what has been described as one of the largest-attended boxing events in recent African history, De Lad’s Boxing Promotions is preparing for another major showdown as anticipation grows for the rematch between Tosin “Sojarboy” Osaigbovo and Ridwan “Scorpion” Oyekola.

The bout, tagged “No Reconciliation,” is scheduled for August 30, with the venue to be announced by the promoters in the coming weeks.

The historic boxing spectacle, held on April 26, 2026, at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, attracted an estimated crowd of more than 16,000 and more than three millions live-views across all streaming platforms, making it one of the biggest combat sports gatherings ever witnessed in the country in recent times.

The headline attraction featured an explosive clash between undefeated lightweight rivals Taiwo “Esepo” Agbaje and Tosin “Sojarboy” Osaigbovo. The atmosphere was electric as Agbaje arrived with thousands of passionate supporters from Mushin, while Sojarboy was backed by a mammoth crowd from the Agege axis of Lagos.

After ten thrilling and action-packed rounds, Taiwo “Esepo” Agbaje emerged victorious via unanimous decision to claim the vacant WBA Africa Lightweight Championship, preserving his unbeaten record and cementing his place among Africa’s elite fighters.

The bout lived up to its pre-fight hype. During the build-up, Agbaje had confidently predicted that Sojarboy would not survive the scheduled ten rounds. Although Sojarboy displayed remarkable toughness and resilience by going the distance, Agbaje’s composure, superior ring management, and championship experience ultimately earned him a deserved victory on the judges’ scorecards.

Despite suffering the first defeat of his professional career, Sojarboy has quickly shifted his focus to his next challenge.

The hard-hitting boxer has confirmed his participation in a rematch against Ridwan “Scorpion” Oyekola, popularly known as “OGO Ibadan.” According to Sojarboy, both fighters have signed contracts for the August 30 contest.

“I have signed my contract, and Scorpion has done the same. Now it’s time to settle our rivalry once and for all inside the ring,” Sojarboy said.

Scorpion has also expressed confidence ahead of the rematch, vowing to produce a stronger performance when the two fighters meet again.

His coach and manager, Patricio, believes significant improvements have been made since their previous encounter.

“This is no longer the old Scorpion they fought before. He is a completely different fighter now. We have successfully blended his natural African strength with the technical discipline of the Mexican boxing style, making him a more complete and dangerous boxer,” Patricio said.

The experienced trainer also reaffirmed his admiration for Nigerian boxing and disclosed that Team Scorpion is expected to arrive in Nigeria on August 10 to begin the final phase of preparations for the bout. Patricio further praised De Lad’s Boxing Promotions for organizing the rematch.

“I have great respect for De Lad’s Boxing Promotions. They are setting the standard for boxing promotion in Africa. Their commitment to developing the sport and organizing world-class events deserves recognition,” he said.

With contracts signed, preparations underway and rivalries renewed, expectations continue to build ahead of August 30, when Sojarboy and Scorpion will meet once again in a contest expected to attract significant attention from boxing fans across Nigeria and beyond.

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