Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has sparked online excitement after humorously challenging fellow star Funke Akindele to a celebrity boxing match, joking that she’s ready to “make some good money” in the ring. The playful call-out, shared in a viral Instagram video, came after a recent high-profile celebrity boxing event in Lagos that saw comedian Carter Efe win ₦50 million and receive an additional ₦50 million from socialite E-Money. The match, held at Bamora Hall, Victoria Island, on Friday, also drew attention for the ₦40 million each that talent manager Soso Soberekon reportedly paid to both Efe and controversial singer Portable before the fight.
Portable later confirmed the pre-fight payment, stating on social media that he had already received ₦40 million and the bout was only for the remaining ₦10 million. This revelation added fuel to the growing trend of celebrity boxing in Nigeria, where entertainment and sport are increasingly blending for massive financial and social rewards. Eniola Badmus, clearly inspired by the spectacle and the cash prizes, took to social media to joke about entering the ring herself, specifically targeting her friend Funke Akindele.
In her video, Badmus said with a laugh, “Funke Akindele, let’s get in the boxing ring. It’s about time. Soso, E-Money, let’s get to it. No time. Money has to be made.” The lighthearted challenge quickly gained traction online, with fans reacting with amusement and curiosity. Many commented on the potential showdown, with some jokingly claiming they’d “book front-row seats” for the hypothetical match. While the exchange is clearly meant as banter between close colleagues, it reflects a broader cultural shift where Nigerian celebrities are increasingly engaging in unconventional ventures for visibility and profit.
The success of Carter Efe’s fight, which drew widespread media coverage and public interest, has set a new benchmark for celebrity boxing in Nigeria. With major figures like Soso Soberekon and E-Money investing in these events, the financial stakes are rising, and the line between entertainment and sport is blurring. Badmus’ joke may be just that — a joke — but it highlights how the celebrity boxing trend is capturing the imagination of Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As more stars consider stepping into the ring, whether for real or for fun, the future of celebrity sports in Nigeria looks more competitive — and more lucrative — than ever.
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