By Aisha Muhammad Magaji
Nigeria’s fast-rising heavyweight boxer, Efe Ajagba, has achieved a career-defining milestone by breaking into the world’s top 10 heavyweight rankings, marking a historic moment for Nigerian boxing on the global stage.
The latest rankings released by the World Boxing Council (WBC) on Monday placed Ajagba at No. 9, following a series of impressive victories that have cemented his status as one of the most dangerous contenders in the division. In contrast, former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua slipped out of the top 10 after his recent loss, sparking conversations about a changing of the guard in heavyweight boxing.
Ajagba’s rise to the elite
Efe Ajagba, nicknamed “The Silent Roller”, has been steadily climbing the ranks since turning professional in 2017. Known for his devastating right hand and remarkable knockout power, the 30-year-old has amassed an impressive record of 21 wins with 17 knockouts and just 1 loss.
His recent back-to-back victories, including a dominant technical knockout win against Croatia’s Filip Hrgović earlier this year, significantly boosted his standing among boxing’s elite.
Speaking after learning of his new ranking, Ajagba said: “This is just the beginning. I am grateful to God, my team, and all Nigerians who believe in me. The dream is to become world champion, and I’m closer than ever.”
Joshua’s slide and what it means
While Ajagba’s star rises, Anthony Joshua’s career trajectory continues to face challenges. The British-Nigerian fighter, once regarded as the face of heavyweight boxing, dropped out of the top 10 for the first time in nearly a decade. His recent unanimous decision loss to American southpaw Jared Anderson further dented his reputation, raising questions about whether Joshua can stage a comeback.
Boxing analyst Mike Costello noted: “Ajagba’s entry and Joshua’s exit symbolize the generational shift in heavyweight boxing. Nigerian boxing fans may be witnessing the passing of the torch from Joshua to Ajagba.”
What this means for Nigerian boxing
Ajagba’s ranking is being celebrated across Nigeria as a major breakthrough for the country’s boxing scene. Lagos-based trainer John Ovia told S24 Media House: “This is huge for Nigeria. We’ve produced world-class boxers before, but Ajagba breaking into the top 10 at this time shows that Nigerian boxing is alive and has a bright future.”
Nigerians on social media have been hailing Ajagba’s achievement, with hashtags like #AjagbaTop10 and #PrideOfNigeria trending. Fans are already speculating about potential matchups with elite fighters such as Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, or Oleksandr Usyk.
Potential title shot ahead
Boxing insiders believe Ajagba’s new position makes him a likely contender for a world title eliminator in the coming year. With the heavyweight division currently fragmented Tyson Fury holding the WBC belt and Oleksandr Usyk reigning as WBA, IBF, and WBO champion Ajagba could soon find himself in line for a career-defining fight.
Veteran boxing promoter Frank Warren commented: “Ajagba is dangerous for anyone right now. His ranking ensures that promoters will consider him for big fights. He has the power, the composure, and the hunger to shock the division.”
Nigeria rallies behind Ajagba
Back home, Ajagba’s success has reignited conversations about investing in grassroots boxing. Sports enthusiasts argue that with proper support, Nigeria could produce more champions on the global stage.
In an interview with the Nigerian Boxing Federation, President Kenneth Omeri described Ajagba’s feat as “a wake-up call to support and develop boxing infrastructure in Nigeria. We must harness this momentum to inspire the next generation of fighters.”
As Ajagba celebrates his new top-10 status, the spotlight is firmly on his next opponent. Whether he gets a title eliminator or a high-profile showdown with another contender, Nigerian fans are hopeful that this marks the beginning of a golden chapter in his career.
For Anthony Joshua, however, the focus shifts to rebuilding confidence and reclaiming lost ground. Boxing fans worldwide are watching closely to see if Joshua can reinvent himself or if Ajagba will fully take the baton as Nigeria’s leading heavyweight hope.
