Nigerian boxing icon Charles Nwokolo is set to be inducted into the World Boxing Council Legends Hall of Fame at a grand ceremony on June 22 in Los Angeles, USA. Known as ‘Dick Tiger’, Nwokolo had a stellar career, competing at the highest levels of the sport and representing Nigeria on the international stage.
Nwokolo’s journey in boxing began at 13 when he switched from football, a decision that would change his life’s trajectory. He became a formidable boxer, securing a gold medal and being honored as the Best Boxer at the 1983 Commonwealth Games. He also represented Nigeria at the 1984 Olympics, where he reached the quarter-finals in a controversial bout.
“I knocked my opponent to the ground twice, but was adjudged to have lost,” Nwokolo recalled. Despite this setback, Nwokolo went on to become both the African Champion and Commonwealth Champion in 1986. He finished his professional career with an impressive record of 31 wins, 20 of which came by way of knockout.
After retiring, Nwokolo fulfilled his long-term plan of opening a boxing gym. Since 2006, he has owned and operated Tiger Boxing Gym in Hollywood, training boxers of all ages and abilities. His legacy continues through his sons, with his older son CJ owning Ambrose Boxing Gym in Melbourne, Australia, and his younger son Emeka following in his footsteps as a professional boxer.
Emeka recently defended his WBA North American Boxing Association super welterweight title with a devastating second-round knockout victory, marking his seventh consecutive win. The Nwokolo boxing dynasty now spans two generations, with both father and son committed to promoting boxing and uplifting Nigerian youth.
The induction into the WBC Legends’ Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of Nwokolo’s contributions to the sport as a competitor and trainer. Nwokolo’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring boxers, highlighting the importance of dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
Nwokolo’s Achievements:
- African Champion: Nwokolo won the African Championship in 1986
- Commonwealth Champion: He secured the Commonwealth Championship in 1986
- Olympic Representative: Nwokolo represented Nigeria at the 1984 Olympics
- Boxing Gym Owner: He has owned and operated Tiger Boxing Gym in Hollywood since 2006
- Trainer and Mentor: Nwokolo continues to train and mentor boxers, passing on his knowledge to the next generation.