Nigerian wrestling icon and Olympic silver medallist, Blessing Oborududu, is set to retire from competitive wrestling after the 2024 National Sports Festival in Ogun State. The Nigerian Wrestling Federation (NWF) confirmed the news, highlighting her extraordinary contributions to the sport.
Oborududu, 36, will make her final appearance on the mat at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic Centre in Ikenne. One of the official venues for the 22nd edition of the festival. Wrestling events began on Monday with the Greco-Roman category. While Oborududu and her female counterparts will start their medal chase today, Tuesday.
Remarkably, Oborududu’s career began at the same event then called the Gateway Games in Abeokuta in 2006. After an early loss in her debut, she returned stronger and dominated the sport, winning gold at every subsequent National Sports Festival she participated in. Her victories span across Kaduna 2009, Rivers 2011, Lagos 2012, Abuja 2018, Edo 2021, and Delta 2022.
Described by the NWF as a trailblazer, Oborududu’s influence extends beyond national borders. She has claimed the African championship title 12 times and carved her name in history as Nigeria’s first Olympic wrestling medalist. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. She won silver in the women’s freestyle 68kg category, after a hard-fought final against the USA’s Tamyra Stock-Mensah.
The federation praised her relentless drive and commitment. Stating that her name echoes across Africa and inspires countless fans and young athletes. Her journey has been one of passion, resilience, and remarkable success.
As she prepares to exit the wrestling scene. Oborududu leaves a legacy of excellence that will continue to shape the future of Nigerian sports. Her retirement marks the end of a golden era in African wrestling.
