Nigerian boxing legend Charles Nwokolo has expressed his delight at his upcoming induction into the World Boxing Council Legends Hall of Fame, scheduled for June 22 in Los Angeles. “I am very honoured and excited about this recognition. It represents the culmination of many years of hard work and sacrifice in a sport that has given me so much,” Nwokolo said.
The former African and Commonwealth champion, known to his boxing fans as ‘Young Dick Tiger’, achieved remarkable success during his illustrious career, including winning gold at the 1983 Commonwealth Games where he was also named Best Boxer of the tournament. Reflecting on his journey, Nwokolo recalled the intense preparation that led to his Olympic appearance in 1984.
“We were lucky to receive government support at that time which allowed us to concentrate on our craft,” he said. “I remember starting Olympic camp with 100 boxers or so and every week, boxers were decamped. I was on a mission to succeed and go to the Olympics and not let anything stop me, together with my good friends, Peter Konyegwachie, Jeremiah Okorodudu of blessed memory and others. I will never forget those days.”
The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control President, Rafiu Ladipo, expressed delight at Nwokolo’s recognition. “This is a proud moment for Nigerian boxing. Charles Nwokolo exemplifies excellence and dedication to the sport. His induction is well-deserved and long overdue, considering his tremendous contributions both as a boxer and now as a trainer,” Ladipo said.
The interim Nigeria Boxing Federation president, Azania Omo-Agege, also praised the development, saying, “I am really happy for him. It is a big feat for Nigerian boxing and I really like what they are doing by inducting him into the Hall of Fame. I think it is something we need to do for our own boxers here at home too.”
NBBofC Secretary-General, Remi Aboderin, echoed similar sentiments. “Champ Charles ‘Young Dick Tiger’ Nwokolo, you are worthy of all accolades. We thank God for His grace upon your life,” he said.
After turning professional in 1986, Nwokolo quickly established himself by becoming both the African Champion and Commonwealth Champion in the same year. He moved to Los Angeles to continue his professional career and finished with an impressive record of 31 wins, with 20 coming by way of knockout.
Since 2006, he has owned and operated Tiger Boxing Gym in Hollywood, where he trains boxers of all ages and abilities. His legacy extends through his sons, with his older son CJ owning Ambrose Boxing Gym in Melbourne, Australia, while his younger son Emeka has followed directly in his footsteps as a professional boxer.
The induction ceremony, marking the 17th Anniversary of WBC Legends, represents a fitting recognition of Nwokolo’s contributions to boxing both as a competitor and as a trainer, passing on his knowledge to the next generation.