WBF champion Agbaje dreams world titles

Nigerian boxing sensation Taiwo ‘Esepo’ Agbaje looks to become a world champion after winning the World Boxing Federation featherweight title in 2022, PETER AKINBO writes

The undefeated Agbaje, with an impressive record of 16 wins and 11 knockouts, is determined to etch his name in the annals of boxing history.

“My long-term goal is to be the world champion. It is my life’s dream,” the boxer nicknamed ‘Esepo’ meaning plenty punches told Saturday PUNCH with unwavering conviction.

“I face every fighter that comes my way as a stepping stone towards achieving that ultimate goal.”

The 32-year-old fighter’s journey to the top echelons of professional boxing began in an unconventional manner—within the confines of his family home.

“I started boxing with the influence of my mum, dad, and siblings. We all trained together, and much of my inspiration came from watching Mike Tyson’s fights.

“My family has always been my pillar of support, especially my uncle, who never stops believing in me,” he said.

Agbaje’s amateur career was marked by a string of impressive wins. He clinched the Governor’s Belt in 2010 and successfully defended it in 2011, an experience he claims winged his career.

“Winning every fight has always shaped me, giving me the courage to move forward. The Governor’s Belt, in particular, was a great experience,” he told our correspondent.

“I remember vividly how hard I trained to win it initially, and for the defence, I studied those videos and sparred with great fighters to ensure I was in top form.”

The boxer’s international exposure came early in his career, when he competed in the Youth Olympic Games in Mozambique and the Commonwealth Games in India, both in 2010. These experiences, according to Agbaje, were instrumental in broadening his boxing perspective and solidifying his career goals.

“These competitions provided me with invaluable exposure to international fights. They inspired me greatly and set me on the path to achieving greater goals in my career,” he said.

Agbaje’s amateur success continued with victories at the National Sports Festival boxing events in Port Harcourt (2011) and Lagos (2012). He also demonstrated his versatility by clinching gold in kickboxing at the 2015 National Sports Festival.

“I always take every fight and every tournament very seriously, as if my whole life depends on it. This approach has served me well across different disciplines,” Agbaje added.

The transition to professional boxing saw Agbaje maintain his winning streak.

He claimed victories in the GOtv Boxing Championship in 2018 and 2019 in the 57 kg category. These triumphs, coupled with an international win in a friendly bout in the UK in 2013, significantly boosted his confidence and career trajectory.

“The fight in the UK was particularly inspiring,” Agbaje told Saturday PUNCH.

“It not only boosted my confidence greatly but also provided me with the kind of exposure I truly valued. These experiences prepared me for the rigours of professional boxing and reinforced my belief that I could compete at the highest level.”

Now the undisputed WBF featherweight champion, Agbaje, attributes his unbeaten record to relentless hard work and self-discipline, saying, “Hard work, hard work, and more hard work—I never stop pushing myself. Self-discipline is my major key to success.”

Agbaje’s most memorable fights include bouts against Tope Musa, Waidi Usman, and Richard Pumicic, the latter being for the WBF Intercontinental Featherweight title. These fights have not only contributed to his impressive record but have also honed his skills and mental fortitude.

The boxer’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, having been awarded the prestigious Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial trophy four times, accolades that he says provide “more inspiration and insights” into his boxing career.

Remi Aboderin, President of the West African Boxing Union and Secretary-General of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, lauded Agbaje’s achievements and potential.

“He is one of our most sensational boxers,” Aboderin told our correspondent.

“He has achieved several honours, winning titles and holding championships, while inspiring a large number of boxers in the younger generation. We at the NBBofC appreciate his style and doggedness, and we hope more opportunities come his way on the international stage.”

As Agbaje prepares for his upcoming fight for the President’s Belt in Abuja on October 26, he remains focused and disciplined, saying, “I’m preparing very well, as I always do. I take every fight very seriously and maintain strict discipline in my training.

“My fans should expect a great fight as usual. I will not disappoint them.”

Looking ahead, Agbaje dreams of fighting in the United States, which he considers the pinnacle of boxing. However, he fondly remembers England as the country he has most enjoyed fighting in so far.

When asked about his sweetest memory as a boxer, Agbaje didn’t hesitate: “So far, it’s winning the WBF title.” Conversely, his saddest moment dates back to his amateur days, when he suffered a broken wrist, a setback that also strengthened his resolve.

As Agbaje continues his ascent in the boxing world, he offers words of encouragement to aspiring boxers in Nigeria: “Hard work is key. Never stop believing in yourselves.”

With his eyes firmly on world championship glory, Agbaje remains a shining example of Nigerian boxing talent that is poised to make his mark on the global stage.