Nigerian pugilist, Rasheed Idowu, has disclosed that the initial contentious decision declaring his continental title fight against Ghana’s Basie Samir as technical draw was a calculated attempt to rob him of victory.
The combative fighter knocked down Samir in round two, with the opponent failing to respond to the count during their Universal Boxing Organisation (UBO)African Light Heavyweight title clash on Saturday at the Decathlon Shop at Kawukudi, Accra, Ghana.
Surprisingly, the fight was later declared as a technical draw by the ring announcer amidst protests from the Nigerian corner. The judges hinged their decision on an alleged illegal blow from Rasheed.
The Universal Boxing Organisation (UBO) has now overturned the earlier decision and declared Nigeria’s Idowu Rasheed winner of bout.
The UBO after careful analysis of the bout footage, declared Idowu Rasheed the winner, saying that they could not detect any unfair blows from the Nigerian boxer during the clash.
The Ibadan-based sportsman, during an exclusive interview with Orisun Igbomina 102.1FM on Tuesday, insinuated that the controversial decision was premeditated.
The champion revealed that only two entry tickets into venue of the encounter were issued to him, his coaching team and supporters.
According to the fighter, this action deprived and made it impossible for some of his fans from Nigeria to access the hall and view the contest live.
Idowu Rasheed nicknamed the Booster said he prepared very well, and knew he would win the fight by a knock-out.
“I wasn’t pleased with the judges scorecard and believed the fight should have been declared a knockout win for me instead of a technical draw.
“It came to me as a huge relief after the daylight robbery was overturned by UBO,” he said.
The Chief Operations Officer of OrisunIgbomina Broadcasting Network(OIBN), Otunba Banji Agboola has congratulated Rasheed, commending the triumph of the gifted pugilist over a formidable opponent.
Extolling the mentality of the Nigerian, who did not allow setbacks and obstacles to dent his resilient spirit, Otunba Banji says the new light heavyweight champion has demonstrated that by hard work, patience, dedication and persistence, victory can be achieved.
The media executive lauds Rasheed for his courage and discipline, on and off the ring, and prays that this success will be a stepping stone to further achievements.
He, however, stressed that the champion deserves more accolades and recognition than he is getting after the triumph.
Otunba Banji believes that this accomplishment on the continental stage will continue to inspire many upcoming professionals, particularly sportsmen, and women, not to be discouraged by temporary setbacks
