Apochi
By Emuobonuvie Ojeni
Nigerian cruiserweight boxer Efetobor Apochi rebounded from his majority decision loss to Cheavon Clarke with a brutal ninth-round knockout victory over Dionardo Minor at the Hilton Tampa Downtown in Florida.
The 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games bronze medalist was determined to get back in the win column and revive his career after recording three losses and just one victory in his last four bouts.
The 37-year-old who began his professional career with 11 straight wins, all coming by way of knockout suffered two straight losses to Americans Brandon Glanton and Adrian Taylor vis split decision. He bounced back with a win fifth round knockout win against Lucas Pontes Da Silva before losing to Clarke in 2024.
Apochi who took control of the fight against Minor, effectively neutralizing his opponent despite Minor’s persistent showboating. The Nigerian landed several heavy shots throughout the rounds but ensured the bout didn’t go to the judges, delivering a decisive knockout in the ninth round.
This victory has positioned Apochi for more fights as he approaches the twilight of his career. A professional late bloomer, he began his pro journey in 2017 alongside Team Nigeria teammate Efe Ajagba.
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