Former heavyweight contender Ike Ibeabuchi is making an unexpected return to the ring at age 52, following a 16-year prison sentence.
The Nigerian boxer was once recognised as a potential threat in the heavyweight division holding a professional record of 20-0 but a string of criminal offences derailed a promising career.
The Nigerian boxer was once seen as a rising threat in the heavyweight division, boasting an undefeated record of 20-0, but a series of criminal offenses ultimately derailed his promising career.
Inspired by Buster Douglas’ historic knockout of Mike Tyson in 1990, Ibeabuchi began his professional boxing career in 1994, quickly climbing the ranks in pursuit of his own path to stardom.
Ibeabuchi gained widespread notoriety in June 1997 with a unanimous decision victory over the then-undefeated David Tua. The brutal 12-round slugfest saw both fighters combine for a heavyweight record 1,730 punches, with Ike throwing an astonishing 975, averaging 81 punches per round.
But just a month after the biggest victory of his career, Ibeabuchi’s personal life began to unravel. He was arrested for kidnapping, and two years later, in Las Vegas, he faced more serious charges of sexual assault.
Once expected to stand alongside the heavyweight greats of a legendary era, Ibeabuchi instead spent 16 years behind bars. He was finally released in 2020.
Now, despite being well beyond his prime, signs point to a return to the ring. In a recent social media post, he declared: “Ready Fight Contract, between I and Danny Williams, valid until July 5, 2025.”
British heavyweight Danny Williams still fighting at 51
British heavyweight Danny Williams has delivered several memorable moments over the course of his lengthy professional career. He is best known for his stunning knockout victory over Mike Tyson in 2004, and for defeating Mark Potter by knockout despite fighting with a dislocated shoulder, a display of remarkable grit and determination.
Now aged 51, the ‘Brixton Bomber’ continues to step into the ring. His most recent bout came in 2023, where he suffered a unanimous decision loss over four rounds. Williams currently holds a professional record of 55 wins and 33 losses with many calling for him to hang up the gloves for good.
Despite Ibeabuchi stating that a bout between the pair has been agreed, Williams has shared that no agreement has been reached.
“All I can say right now is that (Danny) Williams vs Ike (Ibeabuchi) is not on. I’ll let you know if things change.”
