Manfo, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of E&J Productions, explained that his firm was looking forward to making Wasiru one of the highest ranked pugilists in the division, as they aspired to make him a world champion in future.

He told Graphic Sports in an interview that negotiations for a proposed Commonwealth title shot for Wasiru, known in boxing circles as Gyata Bi (lion’s cub), could not materialize so the boxer would be ready to defend his WBO Africa crown in his next ring outing.

“Our next fight will be a defence of the WBO Africa title before we look for a different option. I think that is our decision for now.

“We were in negotiations to have Wasiru fight for the Commonwealth title but negotiations failed and we believe defending our title will be the best decision next,” Manfo said.

Wasiru, who is undefeated in 10 fights with nine knockout victories, dethroned compatriot Isaac Sackey in three rounds to claim the WBO Africa title, a fight which ended in violence and controversy after Sackey’s cornermen and supporters stormed the ring to question referee Adorn Bertin’s decision to stop the fight in the third round.

Hard-hitting Wasiru knocked down Sackey in the third round, which compelled the Beninese referee to end the fight in his favour, resulting in a pandemonium after Sackey’s handlers and supporters engaged in a free-for-all, destroying property at the Bukom Boxing Arena in protest at perceived injustice meted out to the dethroned champion.


Weeks later, the WBO Africa announced Wasiru as a legitimate winner of the bout and handed him the title belt at a ceremony at the Swiss Spirit Alisa Hotel, with Sackey given a window of opportunity to fight the new champion in a rematch should the two camps reach a deal.