Elizabeth Oshoba was never one to back down from a fight. In 2024, she made headlines across the globe by becoming the first Nigerian woman to win the World Boxing Council (WBC) silver featherweight championship. This placed her as the first Nigerian woman, after Helen Joseph in 2015, to win a major boxing title. Her victory in Copenhagen, Denmark, not only placed her among the elite in professional boxing but also brought immense pride to Nigeria.
The 36th Minister of Sports and Development, now the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment – Senator John Enoh, described her achievement as a shining example for aspiring athletes nationwide.
“Elizabeth Oshoba’s victory is a testament to the resilience and talent that our Nigerian athletes possess and the never-say-die spirit that we embody,” he said, celebrating her role as a trailblazer for women in sports.
Since the win, Oshoba (8-0-5k0) has been known as Nigeria’s Queen of the Ring in global media.
How Oshoba began boxing
Elizabeth Oshoba’s childhood was anything but easy. She grew up in a modest home and dreamed of a better future for herself and her family. Her parents, both avid sports enthusiasts, were her biggest cheerleaders. That kind of encouragement gave her the foundation to pursue her dreams.
Interestingly, boxing wasn’t Oshobo’s first love. She was initially a football player until 2013, when her brother introduced her to boxing. At first, she was hesitant because she “didn’t want her fine face to spoil,” but when she stepped into the boxing gym and saw other girls like her training, she knew she belonged in the ring.
“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” Oshoba shared on Instagram.
Now on board, she started her career in amateur competitions at the Lagos State Boxing Hall of Fame, which she credits for making her the fighter she is today. She grew her profile there until Coach Anthony Konyegwachie invited her to the National Boxing team, where she went on to represent Nigeria at various international events.
Her silver medal win at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in the Featherweight division showed her what she could achieve and gave her the guts to aim higher. After that, she transitioned from amateur to professional boxing and hasn’t looked back. Since then, she has won a gold medal for Nigeria at the African Zone 3 Boxing Championships in Cameroon and an All-African Games bronze medal in Morocco.
Oshoba’s career growth in the UK
In late 2022, Elizabeth Oshoba relocated to the United Kingdom (UK) to go pro, which changed her career. She gained access to top-tier facilities, expert trainers, and a supportive boxing community. Being in the UK also exposed her to new opportunities as she got to box with high-level athletes and participate in competitive matches.
Fortunately, her crowning achievement came on January 13, 2024, when she faced Italy’s Michela Braga for the WBC silver featherweight championship at the Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark. Elizabeth Osohobo dominated the bout, culminating in a knockout victory in the 10th round. This win secured her place as Nigeria’s first female world title holder and elevated her professional record to an impressive 7-0 win, including four knockouts.
She plans to establish the Oshoba Elizabeth Foundation to mentor and support young female boxers in Nigeria.
