Olympic silver medallist Blessing Oborududu has announced her retirement from wrestling, drawing the curtain on a glittering 19-year career.
The 14-time African champion ended her journey on a high, clinching gold for Team Bayelsa in her final bout at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta.
The 36-year-old wrestling icon received an emotional farewell from national teammates, officials, fans, and stakeholders, who gave her a standing ovation in tribute to her remarkable career.
Read Also: Meet Blessing Oborududu Nigeria’s Olympics silver medallist
In her heartfelt farewell speech, Oborududu expressed gratitude to those who supported her wrestling journey.
“I want to thank everyone who has been part of my journey: the Nigeria Wrestling Federation led by Daniel Igali, the board members, my teammates, and my family,” she said.
“After the Olympics, I thought of retiring, but the President suggested I retire officially at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, where I made my first appearance as a young wrestler in 2006.”
Reflecting on her career highlights, Oborududu singled out her history-making silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as her proudest moment.
“I created a lot of memories, but my most memorable one was the Tokyo Olympics, which ignited hope across Africa. It was the first-ever medal by an African woman in wrestling at the Olympics, and I hope more will come for future wrestlers,” she added.
President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Daniel Igali, praised Oborududu’s extraordinary contribution to the sport, describing her as irreplaceable.
“The type of Blessing is not easy to come by and not easy to replace. People ask how we’ll replace her; the truth is, you can’t,” Igali stated.
“She’s more than a champion on the mat. Her discipline, mindset, and commitment to nurturing younger wrestlers are what truly make her special.”
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
