Multi-talented boxer, athlete and Police officer, Mariam Adedun has come out of retirement for a shot at becoming the best female boxer in Africa vowing to win the crown.
The hard-fighting, pound for pound proud mother who has been enjoying retirement since close to 10 years now, said she rescinded her decision to stay retired since the current African female title holder in her category is way older than her but she’s still fighting, then why is she retired?
While speaking exclusively to us, Adedun disclosed that she will be having two fights, one in Egypt and another yet to be ascertained, but both fights will come up within the year or early next year according to her.
“I have retired a long time ago but I decided to make a comeback after having this challenge.
“I just hope it works this year or early next year.
“I’m planning of going to Egypt for my retirement fight in August or early next year, depending on my sponsor.
“It’s been a long journey for me. I had to attend a coaching course in 2017 while I was on retirement.
“You know I’m also an athlete beside being a boxer. I do the 400m race which I have a good record time of 51:7 secs which is a personal best. But I’m also retired now in athletics.
“I’m happy to make a return in boxing which is my first love. I started boxing way back in 1997 after my secondary school education, but I still feel I can still do it
“I want to make myself happy and proud, I want to make Nigerian Police force proud, Nigerians and my entire fans all over the world, she said.
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While speaking further, Adedun recalled how people touted her that what is an old woman her age coming back to do?
“People mocked me when I returned that 70 years old woman what are you stil coming to do but I want to prove my critics wrong.
“If my opponent with her age is still in the ring I believe I can still do it and even better.
“I also thank God for my manager, Mr. Godson who understands me and has been a source of encouragement to my career.
My thanks equally goes to my grassroots coach that discovered me from Abule Ijesha, coach Kamoru Ambali before I moved to. Oyingbo where I started my full boxing career”, she concluded.
Adedun coaches Stephen Iyabo, the first Nigerian female boxer, Popoola Jelili, Simon Adebayo and Olaleye Latifat all backed Adedun’s quest saying she’s ready and good to go.
They spoke of her passion, determination and drive which they all agreed they have absolute confidence in her ability to win the title.
