Elizabeth Oshoba has made history as Nigeria’s first female boxing world champion, carving a path in a sport traditionally dominated by men. Her rise to global recognition has been shaped by determination, discipline and years of success in both amateur and professional boxing.
Below are nine key things to know about the Nigerian boxing star.
1. Early life and education
Oshoba was born on December 23, 1999, in Agbado area of Lagos. She began her early education in Lagos before her family moved to Tigbo Ilu in Ogun State. She later completed her secondary education at Ilogbo Asowo Community High School in Ilogbo Ota.
2. She faced bullying for choosing boxing
While growing up, Oshoba was criticised by some classmates who believed boxing was not suitable for girls. She once recalled that some boys in school mocked her for pursuing the sport until she stood up for herself during a confrontation.
3. African Games breakthrough
In 2019, she represented Nigeria at the African Games in Rabat, Morocco. The outing marked her international debut and she won a bronze medal for Nigeria.
4. Commonwealth Games silver medalist
Oshoba further raised her profile at the Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, United Kingdom in 2022, where she clinched a silver medal after overcoming concerns linked to a COVID 19 scare ahead of the competition.
5. IBO super featherweight champion
In November, Oshoba defeated Italy’s Martina Righi to win the IBO female super featherweight title, a victory that marked a significant milestone in her professional boxing career.
6. Historic WBC Silver title win
She made another major statement in January 2024 in Copenhagen, Denmark, when she stopped Italy’s Michela Braga in the tenth round to claim the WBC Silver featherweight belt, becoming the first Nigerian female boxer to secure a world title.
7. Unbeaten professional record
Oshoba has maintained an impressive professional record with nine wins from nine fights, including five victories by knockout. She is widely recognised for her speed, technical ability and calm approach inside the ring.
8. Dominant amateur career
Before turning professional, she dominated amateur boxing in Nigeria, winning the national championship six times. Her achievements earned her the Female Fighter of the Year award at the Fight Gist Media Awards in 2024.
9. Ranked among the world’s best
Now based in the United Kingdom, Oshoba continues to rise in global rankings and is currently placed fourth in the super featherweight division. She is also scheduled to face Chelsey Arnell in a bout on April 5 as she pursues further world titles.
