By Bash Ali has written a heartfelt letter to President Bola Tinubu, expressing frustration over alleged corruption that has hindered a potential historic Guinness World Record Boxing Championship in Nigeria. The event, aimed at being the first of its kind in Africa, promises to bring major economic benefits to the country.
In the letter, Ali, a World Boxing Champion, shared his deep disappointment after nearly two years of discussions with the Tinubu-led government. He claims that corruption and extortion have stalled the championship. Ali revealed he had already made an advance payment of $12 million but faces further financial demands from government officials that he believes are obstructing the event’s progress.
This high-profile championship, which would draw participants from 132 countries, has the potential to generate significant revenue through Pay-Per-View sales, sponsorships, and tourism. Yet, despite these prospects, Ali’s efforts have been mired in bureaucratic hurdles, leading him to seek legal action. A court hearing on April 7, 2025, will address the issues he believes are rooted in government corruption.
Ali also pointed out that his attempts to organize the event over the past 19 years have been marred by similar challenges. He mentioned that the Federal Government has established a Local Organizing Committee several times, involving all branches of government, but corruption has consistently blocked progress.
In his letter, Ali urged President Tinubu to take immediate action and re-inaugurate the Bash Ali Boxing Project Local Organizing Committee. He called for the elimination of corrupt practices, which he believes have put the championship at risk. Ali reiterated his commitment to hosting the event in Nigeria, despite lucrative offers to take it abroad, underlining his dedication to his home country.
As the event nears, Ali remains hopeful that, with the President’s intervention, Nigeria can finally host a world-class boxing championship that could put the country on the global sports map. The outcome of the court hearing next year will be pivotal in determining whether the historic event can move forward.
