By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-02-05 03:20:56
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) recently concluded its first pre-Africa Games competition in Abuja. Samuel Onikeku, the federation’s Technical Director, expressed confidence in the athletes’ readiness for the upcoming continental event in Accra, Ghana. He remarked that the athletes are currently at 85% readiness and are expected to reach 95% readiness after another competition scheduled for February 16-17.
Onikeku, who oversees the technical department of the federation, highlighted the strong performances in events such as the 400m, 1500m, high jump, long jump, and 200m. He emphasized that the athletes’ commanding results in these events could potentially secure podium appearances for Nigeria at the Africa Games. Additionally, Onikeku stated that the athletes’ performance in the first competition and the anticipated improvement in the upcoming contest would simplify the selection process for the final training camp.
He also took the opportunity to commend the athletes, technical officials, media, AFN president, and board members for their support and participation in the pre-Africa Games competition. The event served as a platform for the athletes to showcase their skills and readiness for the upcoming continental fiesta.
In a different sporting realm, the boxing world experienced a rollercoaster of emotions when the highly anticipated world heavyweight title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk was postponed, only to have a new date announced within 24 hours. Originally scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 17, the fight was postponed after Fury sustained a deep cut during sparring, requiring an extended recovery period.
However, a new date for the bout has been confirmed for May 18, with an added stipulation. The Chairman of the General Authority for Entertainment in Saudi Arabia, Turki Alalshikh, revealed that both fighters would be subjected to a significant financial penalty if they were to withdraw from the rearranged contest. This announcement adds another layer of anticipation and pressure to the highly anticipated showdown between Fury and Usyk.
Furthermore, the winner of the Fury vs. Usyk fight will make history by becoming the first fighter to hold all world heavyweight titles in the four-belt era. This remarkable feat adds an extra level of significance and excitement to the rescheduled bout, as boxing fans eagerly await the outcome of this historic clash.
In conclusion, both the athletics and boxing communities have seen developments that have captured the attention of sports enthusiasts. The AFN’s pre-Africa Games competition showcased the potential of Nigerian athletes, while the rescheduling of the Fury vs. Usyk fight has added a new layer of drama and anticipation to the world of boxing. As these events continue to unfold, fans from around the world will eagerly await the outcomes and the impact they will have on their respective sports.
