A former BBNaija star and two-time Nigerian high jump champion, Mike Edwards, has marked his professional boxing debut with a victory over Jake Cornish in a bout that took place at Dublin Arena.
The fight went the distance, and Edwards triumphed by a unanimous decision from the judges.
The match was part of the Misfits Boxing Cruiserweight division, an organization spearheaded by English social media personality and Nigerian-born professional boxer Olajide Olayinka Williams, better known as KSI.
Edwards made this significant career shift on Saturday, August 31, 2024, announcing his entry into professional boxing.
This move signifies a dramatic pivot from his previous career in athletics. Edwards expressed his enthusiasm about this new phase, saying, “Breaking News: Excited to announce my entry into the world of professional boxing! Thrilled to join the Cruiserweight division roster on @MisfitsBoxing. Get ready for an electrifying debut as I step into the ring to showcase my skills and determination.”
Before embracing boxing, Edwards had a distinguished career in track and field. Initially competing for Great Britain, he switched his allegiance to Nigeria in August 2018.
Edwards boasts a lifetime best high jump of 2.25 meters and clinched the Nigerian national championships in both 2021 and 2022.
He also reached the finals at the African Athletics Championships on two occasions, coming close to gold in 2022, and was a finalist at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham the same year.
As he transitions into professional boxing, Edwards’ fans are eager to follow his progress, anticipating that he will make a notable impact in the ring with his blend of athletic prowess and determination.