Lagos – Joe Mensah, an Olympian, said on Sunday that the “Saturday Boxing Show” has helped in the discovery and development of boxers.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mensah, a stakeholder in boxing, noted that the show received a boost on Saturday with no fewer than 20 amateur boxers participating.

“The show is a good platform for young boxers to showcase their talents; it will help them to develop their skills and prepare them for future challenges in boxing.

“I am happy for our young stars; and I just demand for more support from the communities, societies including the youth department of our local government.

“As well as other youth group, they need to come out and support and encourage our young stars to become professional boxers

“We are appealing to the governments, boxing stakeholders and sports-loving individuals, to support the programme so that it can be sustained,’’ Mensah said.

The latest edition was the 53rd in the series of the show which is always held at the Mobolaji Sports Centre, Yaba, Lagos.

The competition is sponsored by Olawale Edun, the Chairman, Lagos State Boxing Hall of Fame and it is coordinated by Mensah.

During the show, Jelili Popoola of the Nigeria Police defeated Samuel Ogedengbe of Nigerian Army in the 75-kilogramme category.

Sahid Lawal of Ola Akins Boxing Club defeated Patrick Ijomoney from the Star Boxing Club in the 69-kilogramme category while Samson Taiwo from Golden boxing club won in the 52- kilogramme category.

Wahab Adeniji from Azidiq Nursery and Primary School, Ketu, defeated Hassan Omobolji from Brighter Day Nursery and Primary School, Ajegunle in the 26-kilogramme category.

Taofeek Fawaz from Amudalat Secondary School defeated Omotajo Yusuf from Ojora Junior High School, Ijora in the 38-kilogramme category.

Salau Nurudeen from the Lagelu Boxing Club was, however, disqualified for an alleged misconduct and improper dressing.

In the female side, Toyin Adejumobi from Smart Boxing Club defeated Adeyinka Saraphina from Brithess Boxing Club in the 69-kilogramme category.

Popoola of the Nigeria Police said the show was a good place for upcoming boxers to improve their skills

“I really appreciate the organisers for sustaining the show till this time, and this avenue has helped a lot for upcoming boxers to showcase their talents,” he said.

– NAN