The rise of Oba Femi (real name Isaac Odugbesan) has been one of the most meteoric ascents in modern sports entertainment.
From the campus of UNILAG to the grandest stage of them all, he has quickly become a symbol of Nigerian dominance in the WWE.
In this article, Sporting Tribune writes about six essential things to know about “The Ruler”.
Background
Born and raised in Lagos, Odugbesan was a former Nigerian shot put athlete who started his sports career in track and field events during his school years before signing with WWE in 2021 through its NIL programme.
From Shot Put Champion to WWE Star
Before stepping into the ring, Isaac Odugbesan was an elite track and field athlete. He won ten shot put medals at the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) during his time at the University of Lagos before transferring to the United States.
He eventually became a standout at the University of Alabama, winning back-to-back SEC shot put titles in 2021 and 2022.
A Product of the “Next In Line” Program
Oba Femi was among the first wave of athletes signed through WWE’s “Next In Line” (NIL) program, designed to transition high-calibre college athletes into professional wrestling.
He reported to the Performance Centre in 2022 and made his televised debut shortly after, proving that the gamble to switch from track and field to the squared circle was a masterstroke.
Record-Breaking NXT Success
In the developmental brand, Oba Femi established himself as an immovable force. He won the 2023 Men’s NXT Breakout Tournament and famously became the longest-reigning NXT North American Champion in history, holding the title for a record 273 days. By late 2025, he reached the pinnacle of the brand by becoming a two-time NXT Champion.
The “Ruler” Persona and Iconic Entrance
Known as “The Ruler” or “The Nigerian Conqueror,” his character is defined by a stoic, authoritative presence and a “less is more” wrestling style that emphasises brute power. Fans have specifically latched onto his signature “Menacing Stroll”—a powerful, rhythmic strut to the ring accompanied by loud, synchronised chants of “O-BA! O-BA!” from the crowd.
A Historic WrestleMania Debut
On April 19, 2026, Oba Femi achieved what many veterans never do: a career-defining victory at WrestleMania. In a “passing of the torch” moment at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, he defeated the legendary Brock Lesnar in his main roster debut match.
Using his “Fall From Grace” powerbomb to secure the pinfall, Femi effectively announced himself as the new “Final Boss” of the WWE.
ALSO READ: WrestleMania 42: Nigeria’s Oba Femi defeats Brock Lesnar in five minutes
