Nigerian-born heavyweight boxer Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh has thrown down the gauntlet to former unified world champion Anthony Joshua, calling for a blockbuster bout — ideally to be staged in Nigeria.
Ibeh, who has been on a remarkable winning streak of 11 consecutive fights since suffering a 2021 defeat to Jared Anderson, recently bolstered his reputation with a third-round knockout victory over former world title challenger Gerald Washington.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the U.S.-based fighter said Anthony Joshua would be the perfect opponent for him to make a global statement and solidify his place among boxing’s elite.
“We need the right platform and the right opponent to make a statement with, and there’d be no better one than AJ,” Ibeh said.
Describing the potential matchup as “a dream come true,” Ibeh added that he is ready to face Joshua anywhere in the world, whether in Nigeria or at London’s O2 Arena.
“It doesn’t matter where it is — I’m ready,” he said. “Anywhere, even in Nigeria. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the UK. I would love to dance with him in the O2 Arena.”
The confident heavyweight went further, boldly predicting victory over Joshua if the fight were to happen.
“I would definitely stop him, no questions about that,” Ibeh declared. “It’s going to come down to how soon or how quickly it goes.”
Ibeh’s challenge adds fresh intrigue to the heavyweight division, where Anthony Joshua — a two-time world champion — continues to rebuild his career and explore potential high-profile bouts in 2025.
