Nigerian-American boxer Emeka Nwokolo has moved up three places to 12th in the latest World Boxing Association (WBA) super welterweight rankings, becoming the only Nigerian currently ranked in the division’s top 15.
The 32-year-old Los Angeles-based fighter, who holds the WBA-NABA super welterweight title, described the rise as both an honour and a responsibility.
“Moving up to number 12 in the WBA rankings is a huge honour for me and for Nigeria,” Nwokolo said. “I’m not just fighting for myself; I’m fighting for my country, for my family’s legacy, and for every young Nigerian who dreams of making it on the world stage.”
Nwokolo, who fights under the nickname Lion Heart 7o7, is the son of Nigerian boxing legend Charles Nwokolo. He said the achievement validates the sacrifices he has made throughout his career but vowed not to stop until he becomes a world champion.
His rise follows a successful title defence in July, when he defeated Jose Luis Sanchez by unanimous decision at the Pechanga Resort & Casino in California. That win marked his eighth straight victory and improved his professional record to 17-1.
Despite personal tragedy—losing his aunt, Rita Eguogie, just four days before the fight—Nwokolo powered through to keep his momentum going.
In addition to the WBA-NABA belt, Nwokolo also holds the WBF International, UBO International, American Boxing Federation, and UBO World titles, making him a five-belt champion.
As the only Nigerian in the WBA’s super welterweight top 15, Nwokolo continues to carry the nation’s flag in a division largely dominated by American, Puerto Rican, and Mexican fighters.
