Ilaji boss, Sanusi, boosts Oyekola Scorpion ahead WBF fight

CHAIRMAN of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Ibadan, Engineer Dotun Sanusi, has pledged to partner Oyo State government towards making the dream of Nigeria’s boxer, Rilwan Oyekola to rule the world become a reality.

The Ibadan-born Oyekola is scheduled to face Jose Ramos Savin of Spain for the World Boxing Federation (WBF) International World super featherweight belt on December 27, and Sanusi has agreed to stage the fight at his Sports Resort located at Akanran, Ibadan.

Sanusi, made the pledge to host the world title fight recently when he hosted President of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), Dr Rafiu Ladipo and the Secretary General of the body, Mr Remi Aboderin, among others.

He stated that Oyekola needs the support of not only the people in Oyo State but Nigerians at large, to bring this international glory to his fatherland.

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“I am happy that this world title fight is to take place in Nigeria and I will support Oyo State government by hosting the fight here at Ilaji Sports Resort.

“I know that fighting at home is a boost for our boxer and I believe if given proper encouragement, he will surely beat his opponent here by God’s grace. I am ready to partner the state government towards making this event a memorable one and I pray God to deliver this world belt to Nigeria,” Sanusi said.

He also charged Team Scorpion to go the extra mile in preparing for the fight and boost the confidence of the boxer.

“We just have to make sure that our boxer is well-prepared for this bout, he should not underrate his opponent.

“I urge the NBB of C to do everything humanly possible to rally support for Team Scorpion. Our boxer must be in his best frame of mind on the D-Day,” Sanusi said.

Meanwhile, reigning national super featherweight champion, Scorpion lauded Engineer Sanusi for his support.

“I’m greatly inspired by this development, and it is also a challenge to me to redouble my efforts. It’s my aim to show appreciation to Engineer Sanusi, who is like a father to me and our sports-loving governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for the support by winning this belt.

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“Having the opportunity to fight for this title at home will be a plus for the present government because history and posterity will record it in their favour. I promise not to let my fans and Nigerians down come December 27 God willing,” Scorpion told Tribunesport.