By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Nigerian sports icons are often neglected after their prime, leading many to tragic ends in poverty and despair, says Bashiru Ali, popularly known as Bash Ali, a former World Boxing Champion (WBC). Comparing the treatment of sports heroes in the United States, such as Mike Tyson, with that of Nigeria, Bash Ali lamented the dire situation faced by retired athletes in the country.
“Each time our true heroes pass on due to poverty or curable health challenges, I weep profusely,” Bash Ali said. “Tears well up when I remember Jerry Okorodudu, Rashidi Yekini, Peter Fregene, Sebastian Brodericks, Mike Onyemachara, Emmanuel Ebiede, and Thompson Oliha, among others, who served Nigeria but died avoidable deaths.”
Bash Ali referenced Mike Tyson’s story as an example of how societies can support their heroes. “Mike Tyson, after retiring from boxing, faced financial ruin. However, his country, the sporting fraternity, and stakeholders rallied around him, organizing a bout with a former blogger, Jake Paul, which earned him $20 million. It was an inconsequential fight but had profound consequences, helping Tyson rebuild his life.”
He highlighted that Tyson’s revival was a collective effort. “Nobody questioned his past mistakes or lavish lifestyle. Instead, they focused on giving him a second chance, ensuring he aged gracefully and left a legacy.”
Bash Ali expressed frustration with Nigeria’s failure to support its sports legends, including himself. “Despite my achievements as the undefeated World Cruiserweight Champion, successive governments have ignored my calls to organize a historic fight in Nigeria, which could bring over a billion dollars to the country.”
He noted that the Federal Government had, on three occasions (2006, 2014, and 2019), inaugurated a local organizing committee for the event but failed to implement the plan due to corruption. “While the government pledged to provide an enabling environment, private sponsors were to fund the event. Yet, the project remains stalled,” he stated.
Ali appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize sports development and infrastructure, emphasizing the need to support sports icons and inspire future generations. “A nation that forgets its heroes is destined to lose its glory,” he remarked.
The boxer reiterated his commitment to setting a Guinness World Record as the oldest boxer to fight and defend a world title, urging the Tinubu administration to bring the historic event to fruition. “With the renewed hope agenda, the world is watching Nigeria. This is an opportunity to rewrite history and restore pride to Nigerian sports,” he said.
Bash Ali’s decades-long career, marked by resilience and dedication, underscores the urgent need for better welfare and recognition for Nigerian sports heroes, who often fade into obscurity despite their contributions to the nation.
