Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist, Blessing Oborududu, has officially announced her retirement from wrestling, ending a stellar 19-year career that redefined Nigeria’s presence on the global stage.
The 36-year-old wrestling icon, a 14-time African champion and the first Nigerian to win an Olympic medal in wrestling, concluded her journey on a high note—clinching gold for Bayelsa State at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The atmosphere was charged with emotion as fans, officials, teammates, and wrestling stakeholders gave her a standing ovation during her farewell ceremony. Teammates delivered heartfelt tributes to honour her legacy.
Fighting back tears, Oborududu expressed gratitude to all who supported her throughout her career. “I want to thank everyone who has been part of my journey—the Nigeria Wrestling Federation led by Daniel Igali, the board members, my teammates, and my family,” she said.
She revealed she had considered retirement after the Olympics but was encouraged by the federation president to bid farewell at the National Sports Festival, the same event where her career began in 2006.
“I created a lot of memories, but my most memorable one was the Tokyo Olympics, which ignited hope across Africa. It was the first ever medal from an African woman in wrestling at the Olympics. I hope many more will come for future wrestlers.”
President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Honourable Daniel Igali, described Oborududu as irreplaceable, calling her a rare blend of talent, professionalism, and mentorship.
“The type of Blessing is not easy to come by—or replace. She’s not just a champion on the mat, but a big sister and role model off it. Many of the younger wrestlers live with her, and she takes care of them like family. That selflessness means more to me than medals.”
Team captain Hannah Reuben also led a tribute from national teammates, applauding Oborududu’s commitment, character, and extraordinary contributions to Nigerian wrestling.
Beyond her Olympic success and continental dominance, Oborududu is also a double Commonwealth Games gold medalist, winning titles in 2018 and 2022. Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy will inspire generations of Nigerian and African wrestlers to come.
