Lawrence Okolie is optimistic that more British boxers will compete in Nigeria following his match against Ebenezer Tetteh this past Sunday.

The ex-cruiserweight champion and Olympic medalist, who hails from London and has Nigerian heritage, believes fellow athletes like Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma may experience “FOMO” (fear of missing out) upon seeing the enthusiastic reception from Lagos boxing fans.

“They will witness me headline the event over there and that will undoubtedly spark their interest to join in,” the 33-year-old shared with BBC Sport Africa.

“I’m genuinely excited about fighting in Nigeria.”

Okolie, who held the WBO cruiserweight title from 2021 until 2023, has transitioned into the heavyweight category, where he aims to challenge notable boxers such as Joshua, whose Olympic gold medal influenced his entry into the sport.

Tetteh, his opponent from Ghana, is recognized for his toughness and striking ability.

In December, Tetteh faced a loss by stoppage in the seventh round against another British heavyweight, Dillian Whyte, in Gibraltar.

Okolie, originally from Hackney in East London, has always taken pride in his Nigerian heritage.

“Without my parents moving to the UK, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to represent Britain in the Olympics or become a champion,” he stated.

“They passed down the [African] culture and values, maintaining my connection through them.”

During a visit to Nigeria earlier this year, Okolie experienced firsthand the enthusiastic reception he could expect on Sunday.

“The response was incredible and left me pleasantly surprised,” he recounts.

“I found my face in numerous gyms, people recognized me, and the excitement was palpable.”

Okolie described the upcoming Lagos event, organized by Amir Khan and Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, as “groundbreaking” and promises a vibrant cultural experience.

“There will be performances from artists, a colorful atmosphere – a blend of English style infused with African spirit.”

“The boxing culture there is deeply rooted, and fans truly appreciate the sport.”

In addition to Joshua and Itauma, Okolie mentions fellow countrymen Joe Joyce, David Adeleye, and Fabio Wardley as potential boxers attracted to the burgeoning African boxing scene.

“Our heritage promotes greater visibility and prestigious fights in British boxing.”

His fight in Lagos is part of Okolie’s broader objective to capture another world title in the heavyweight category by 2026.

Since moving up, he has fought in the heavyweight division twice, with his most recent success being a unanimous decision against Kevin Lerena in July.

Earlier this month, the WBC mandated a final eliminator between Okolie and the undefeated 20-year-old Itauma, who is set to face American Jermaine Franklin in January; the winner will be positioned as the mandatory contender for the world title next year.

Okolie seems to be enjoying the benefits of not having to worry about weight management as he remarks, “I’ve been eating a lot,” laughing.

“I no longer have to restrict myself like I did a decade ago. It makes my training much more enjoyable since I’m not depriving myself.”

The “Chaos in the Ring” event in Lagos will showcase a diverse card featuring seasoned European fighters alongside emerging African prospects.

The card includes Harley Benn, son of Nigel Benn, who will compete against Ghana’s Elvis Ahorgah in a super middleweight bout, and former Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka, who will fight German veteran Patrick Korte.

In his leading position on the card, Okolie hopes to motivate a new generation of fighters in Nigeria.

“I anticipate significant infrastructure developments in Nigeria over the next five to ten years.

“The native talent is deeply rooted in our culture.”