Nkechi Blessing pens heartfelt tribute to mother amid boxing defeat

By Damilola Akinwale –

Actress Nkechi Blessing has penned an emotional tribute to her late mother following her defeat in a boxing bout against reality TV star Phyna.

The duo went into the ring after weeks of online trolling and banter, in what was billed as the first female celebrity boxing fight. The anticipated bout ended after four rounds, with Phyna emerging as the winner.

However, Nkechi refused to accept defeat, declaring herself a champion in a series of Instagram posts on Friday. She also apologised to fans who lost their bets on her, insisting that she did her best in the ring.

In a separate Instagram post, Nkechi saluted her late mother for her impact in shaping her life and her bravery. She also revealed that she requested her mother’s favourite song from the organisers so she could feel her mother’s presence.

The actress said her mother must be proud of her performance despite the defeat, adding that she had trained for only two days before the event and still “fought like a warrior”.

Nkechi also said she would enter the ring again if necessary, despite never having physically fought anyone before. She described the experience as a great one that would continue to be talked about by millions of people.

She wrote: “AFIANMA… Your precious child was on a boxing ring for the first time. In all my years on earth, I have never raised my hands to fight any soul, but yesterday I stood on an unfamiliar stage with just one thing, COURAGE, and in front of millions of people, I fought like a warrior. Mummy, your daughter did not win, but her fight won’t leave the mouths of millions in a hurry.

“The world is proud of me right now, and I am sure you are too. Keep resting in peace, Mummy. I love you forever. Big shout-out to @balmoralpromotions and @bet9jaig for this experience. I will never forget it in a hurry”.