Josephina “Phyna” Otabor made history by winning Nigeria’s first female celebrity boxing bout, knocking out actress Nkechi Blessing during their scheduled four-round contest at Balmoral Promotions’ Chaos in the Ring on 1 October 2026.
Held at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, the event saw the former Big Brother Naija winner secure ₦50 million for her triumph. Following the victory, Otabor indicated that her performance against Blessing could mark the beginning of a longer professional boxing career.
Fresh from flooring Blessing, Otabor immediately set her sights on Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia, accusing her of sending disturbing direct messages. “I came in, and I kept my cool and did the thing. Now I would like to fight Etinosa. I think it is time I teach her a lesson,” Phyna said. Idemudia, who watched Otabor’s knockout victory from ringside, accepted the challenge without hesitation, stating, “I have been advising you to carry the Edo name with pride. We do not run from any fight. I accept the challenge fully.”
The card, which was broadcast live on SuperSport and DAZN with sponsorship from Bet9ja, featured additional celebrity and professional contests. In the second crossover bout, skit maker Carter Efe dominated musician Speed Darlington over four rounds to win by technical knockout after Darlington stopped moving, preserving his undefeated streak in the series.
In the main event, Ghana’s Seth “Freezy Macbones” Gyimah claimed the WBO African Light Heavyweight Continental Championship by dethroning Nigerian defender Godday “Zodsolo” Appah via unanimous decision.