James Oyebola facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James Oyebola
Statistics
Nickname(s)	Big Bad
Rated at	Heavyweight
Nationality	Nigerian British
Born	(1961-06-10)10 June 1961 Lagos, Nigeria
Died	27 July 2007(2007-07-27) (aged 46) Charing Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom
Stance	Orthodox
Boxing record
Total fights	23
Wins	18
Wins by KO	16
Losses	4
Draws	1
No contests	0
Medal record Commonwealth Games Bronze 1986 Edinburgh Super Heavyweight

James Oyebola was a talented heavyweight boxer from Nigeria and Britain. Born on June 10, 1961, he became well-known for his boxing skills. He proudly won a bronze medal at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in the super heavyweight division. From 1994 to 1996, James Oyebola held the title of British heavyweight champion.

Standing very tall at 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 meters), James had an impressive reach of 85 inches (2.16 meters). He fought in the orthodox style, which means he led with his left hand and punched with his right. Throughout his career, he competed in 23 fights, winning 18 of them. A remarkable 16 of his wins were by knockout, showing his powerful punches. He lost four fights and had one draw. James Oyebola was based in Paddington, London, during his boxing career.

James Oyebola: A Boxing Champion

Early Life and Boxing Beginnings

James Oyebola was born in Lagos, Nigeria. He started his boxing journey as an amateur. He quickly showed great promise in the sport. In both 1986 and 1987, he became the ABA Super Heavyweight Champion. This was a significant achievement that highlighted his strength and skill.

Rising Through the Ranks

Oyebola turned professional and continued his success. In 1993, he won the WBC International Heavyweight title. This was a big step in his career. On November 19, 1994, he won the vacant British Heavyweight title. He achieved this by knocking out Clifton Mitchell in four rounds at the National Ice Rink in Cardiff, Wales. His last professional fight was in 1996. During his time in the ring, he was known by the exciting nickname "Big Bad."

Family Life

James Oyebola had two children with Malin Bergstrom. His daughter, Kristel Regina Oyebola, was born in 1994. His son, James Babatunde Oyebola, was born in 1999. Both of his children were born in Westminster, London.

Remembering James Oyebola

On July 23, 2007, James Oyebola was involved in a serious incident at a club in Fulham Broadway. He was visiting a friend and tried to help staff with some customers. Sadly, he suffered severe injuries during this event. He passed away a few days later, on July 27, 2007, at Charing Cross Hospital in London. His funeral was held on September 10, 2007.

Simon Block, who was a leader at the British Boxing Board of Control, shared a heartfelt message about James. He said that James was truly a gentleman. He admired James's courage in facing challenges, both inside and outside the boxing ring.

A Lasting Legacy

After the incident, those responsible were held accountable by the law. James Oyebola's family decided to create a special charity foundation in his name. This foundation aims to help young people find a positive path for their future. It's a wonderful way to honor James's memory and continue his spirit of helping others.

Boxing Achievements

More to Explore

• Boxing at the 1986 Commonwealth Games