Nigerian featherweight boxer Idris Timileyin Gbadamosi has been eliminated from the inaugural WBC Boxing Grand Prix following a sixth-round technical knockout (TKO) loss to Mexico’s Hector Munguia Calderon on Thursday, Sports247 reports.
The fight, held on April 17, took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the multi-day tournament running from April 17 to 20.
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Gbadamosi, nicknamed “Spirit,” entered the ring as one of Nigeria’s most promising young fighters. Known for his speed, footwork, and ring intelligence, he had been tipped as a potential breakout star in the featherweight division.
However, Hector Munguia—bringing more international experience and a relentless pace—proved to be the stronger competitor.
After five closely contested rounds, Munguia sealed the victory in the sixth with a decisive combination that forced the referee to stop the bout.
The WBC Boxing Grand Prix is a newly established global tournament format created by the World Boxing Council, otherwise known as Boxing World Cup where rookies and talented boxers not older 26 years old were given the chance to show case their boxing prowess across different weight categories including the heavyweight.
It features a knockout-style competition bracket, where fighters from various regions compete across several weight divisions.
Each division includes quarterfinal, semifinal, and final bouts, all taking place over a compact schedule to heighten competition intensity and global viewership.
The featherweight division, in which Gbadamosi competed, includes fighters from Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Asia, battling for regional pride, rankings, and a shot at international recognition.
The tournament not only aims to crown winners in each division but also to serve as a launchpad for emerging talents looking to establish themselves on the world stage.
Although Gbadamosi’s run has come to an end, his performance earned admiration and shined a spotlight on the rising talent from Nigeria’s boxing scene.
The WBC Grand Prix first round continues in Saudi Arabia through April 20, promising more high-stakes action from boxing’s next generation of stars.
