Olawale Ajimotokan reporting from Abuja.
The organisers of the Dambe Warriors League (DWL) have positioned the traditional wrestling event as a potential gold mine for the country. During a media briefing and fighter weigh-in ceremony for the Dambe Warriors League Super Fight 03, Chidi Anyina, co-founder of DWL, shared their vision. He expressed that Dambe has the potential to receive international acclaim, much like Nollywood and Afrobeat.
Super Fight 03 will witness the participation of ten fighters, including two foreign fighters named Mateusz from Poland and Denis Chernysh from Russia.
Anyina also revealed that the organisers are considering hosting the fourth edition of the event in the UK next year, taking into account the large Nigerian Diaspora population in the country. Additionally, they are collaborating with the Ministry of Arts and Tourism to leverage sports as a cultural asset.
The first edition of the Dambe Warriors League final took place at Kano Pillars Stadium in Kano, while the second season was held at Muri Okunola Park in Victoria Island, Lagos.
This time, the event is being held in Abuja, and for the first time, they have partnered with SuperSport for distribution. The fight will be aired in 42 African countries, allowing viewers across the continent to watch. Anyina emphasized the importance of engaging global audiences and generating interest in the sport.
Apart from the two foreign fighters, eight local fighters will also compete in Abuja. The matchups include Aljanin Nasarawa vs Yar Mage in the lightweight category, Dogon Messi vs Shabban in the middleweight category, Garkuwan Yansanda vs Ali Kanin Bello in the heavyweight category, and Dogon Shegiyar Mota vs Dan Tula Yellow.
Shabban, who was previously knocked out by Dogon Messi, expressed his determination to seek revenge. Weighing in at 77 kgs, he thanked the organisers for providing insurance and paying his salary, and credited his membership in DWL for transforming his lifestyle.
Chernysh, who used to be a boxer, expressed his excitement in participating in the event in Nigeria. He assured he would give his best performance against his opponent.
Mateusz, also known as the White Mamba, expressed his gratitude towards Nigerians for their hospitality, and mentioned his positive experience at the Dambe Village.