Phyna Crowns BBNaija Anniversary with Historic Boxing Knockout Victory

Ijeoma Otabor, popularly known as Phyna and winner of Big Brother Naija, recently marked the four-year milestone of her reality television triumph. This celebration coincided with her historic win in Nigeria's inaugural female celebrity boxing match.

Phyna, who emerged victorious in the seventh season of Big Brother Naija, 'Level Up,' on October 2, 2022, added another significant achievement to her name. Exactly four years subsequent to that date, she commemorated the occasion by clinching a victory against Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing via knockout. The momentous win occurred during Balmoral Promotions’ 'Chaos in the Ring' event, held on Thursday at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Reflecting on these dual accomplishments in a social media post on Friday, Phyna expressed, “October 2nd will forever be a special date in my life. Today marks the anniversary of the day I won BBN, and now, years later, I’m celebrating another historic victory becoming the first female boxer to step into this ring and win this fight.”

The former reality TV personality stated that her move from television to the boxing ring was driven by a desire to push her own limits and dismantle existing barriers. She wrote, “From reality TV to the boxing ring, I’ve always been willing to challenge myself, break barriers, and prove that there is so much more to Phyna than what people see. This one is for every woman who has ever been told she couldn’t. We can. We will. And we absolutely should.”

Phyna extended her gratitude to Balmoral Promotions and Bet9ja for the opportunity, labelling October 2nd as “a date of victory, courage and new beginnings.” She was awarded ₦50 million for her win in the groundbreaking bout and indicated her intention to pursue professional boxing, suggesting this victory over Nkechi Blessing could be the genesis of a long career in the sport.

Following her fight, Phyna publicly challenged Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia, claiming Etinosa had been bothering her through direct messages. “I came in, and I kept my cool and did the thing. Now I would like to fight Etinosa. I think it is time I teach her a lesson,” Phyna declared after the match. Etinosa, who was present at ringside, promptly accepted the challenge, stating, “I have been advising you to carry the Edo name with pride. We do not run from any fight. I accept the challenge fully.”

Phyna’s victory was one of several highlights on the night. Skit maker Carter Efe also triumphed over musician Speed Darlington by technical knockout in their four-round celebrity contest. Additionally, the event showcased professional boxing, where Ghana’s Seth “Freezy Macbones” Gyimah defeated Nigerian champion Godday “Zodsolo” Appah by unanimous decision, securing the WBO African Light Heavyweight Continental Championship.