128 boxers battle for 10 slots at 2026 Commonwealth Games
128 boxers are competing for 10 spots on Nigeria's team for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Nigeria Boxing Federation is currently conducting open trials to select participants for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. A total of 128 boxers, which includes four athletes from the diaspora, are participating in these trials, held at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex in Surulere. The trials commenced with a series of preliminary bouts early in the week, leading up to quarter-finals and semi-finals, which are set to conclude before the championship bouts taking place on Friday, March 6.
The event has featured spirited performances from a diverse group of 101 male and 27 female boxers across various weight categories, displaying a high level of competition and anticipation within the boxing community. Notably, the National Boxing Federation expanded the team size originally planned from three men and three women to five of each gender, a decision influenced by the intervention of the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade. This change allows for a stronger representation of Nigerian boxers at the Commonwealth Games.
With the trials drawing large crowds and a festive atmosphere, the upcoming championship bouts promise to highlight the talent and dedication of each athlete aiming for a position on the national team. The conclusion of these trials not only impacts the athletes' careers but also serves as a significant reflection of Nigeria's commitment to succeeding on the international stage, particularly in the realm of sports like boxing that traditionally has strong support in the country.