By Perekeme Odon
The Nigerian sporting world has been thrown into deep reflection following the passing of revered boxing journalist and analyst, Trigo Egbegi, fondly known across generations as Mr Boxing. He died on Sunday, 5 July 2026.
The announcement was made by his younger brother, veteran journalist Alfred Egbegi, a former Special Assistant on Media to Governor Seriake Dickson and former General Manager of the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation, as well as publisher of the Izon Link newspaper.
Mr Boxing was a proud son of Bayelsa State whose voice shaped the understanding of boxing for millions of Nigerians and African sports lovers. Trigo Egbegi was one of the most respected Nigerian sports journalists and boxing broadcasters of his generation. For over four decades, he devoted his life to the coverage, growth, and deep understanding of boxing in Nigeria and beyond. His voice and writings helped shape how many generations came to know and love the sport.
His journalism career saw him write for leading publications such as The Concord, The Guardian Nigeria, and Sports Link. Through these platforms, he delivered insightful analysis, fearless commentary, and detailed reporting on boxing developments across Nigeria and the international stage.
His influence went beyond print journalism into broadcasting, where he became the iconic anchor of the celebrated Big Fight of the Decades programme on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where he brought major boxing moments to life with clarity, passion, and deep knowledge. Through his work, he became a trusted voice in the living rooms of countless Nigerian families.
Egbegi played an important role in chronicling the rise and reign of Nigerian boxing legends such as Dick Tiger, Hogan Bassey, Obisia Nwankpa and others. He documented their journeys with pride and helped preserve their legacy for future generations. His work ensured that their achievements were not forgotten but celebrated as part of national sporting history.
Over the years, he also conducted memorable interviews with global boxing greats, including Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Thomas Hearns, and Sugar Ray Leonard, among others. These conversations reflected his deep respect for the sport and his ability to connect with champions across the world.
Beyond journalism, Trigo Egbegi also served the sport in administration as secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control. In that role, he contributed to the structure and development of boxing governance in the country, always advocating for better support for athletes and stronger sporting systems.
From the golden eras of the 1970s and 1980s, through the professional growth of the 1990s and 2000s, and into his later years as a respected elder voice, he remained consistent in his mission. He was a strong advocate for grassroots development and the revival of Nigerian boxing, always calling for proper planning and investment in young talent.
Trigo Egbegi leaves behind a powerful legacy as a journalist, broadcaster, administrator, and custodian of boxing history. His contributions will continue to inspire journalists, athletes, and lovers of the sport for many years to come.
