Cynthia Ogunsemilore, one of Nigeria’s most prominent boxers, is one of those who secured an Olympic ticket and is set to represent the nation in the upcoming Olympic Games.
In an exclusive interview with Sports 247 at the Ilaje Resorts training ground, the vibrant and confident Ogunsemilore expressed her determination to perform excellently and return with a gold medal.
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Reflecting on his unexpected journey into boxing, Ogunsemilore revealed that he initially had no interest in the sport.
Her entry into boxing was encouraged by a family friend who saw potential in her. Over time, she developed a deep passion for boxing, especially after meeting other female boxers.
Ogunsemilore attributes his confidence in the ring to his physical attributes, particularly his height, and his ability to effectively use his reach and follow his trainer’s instructions.
He has already demonstrated his prowess by winning a crucial fight against a Zambian opponent at the African Games, securing an Olympic berth.
Her confidence was evident as she narrated how she felt victorious even before the match began due to her height advantage.
“Well, the fight that got me the ticket was: The girl is from Zambia. Sorry, I forgot her name. She is from Zambia.
When I saw her I felt like I had already won because I’m taller than her. That’s something about me. If I meet any opponent and I look at you like he is taller than you, my mind is that you are already dead and I will knock you out.
So she was just trying to show foolish stubbornness. Then I let him know that we are not partners. We only met in the ring to box. Then I showed him that I am a senior. That’s when I got my ticket,” Cynthia said.
Training alongside other determined athletes, Ogunsemilore has focused on honing his skills and preparing for the challenges ahead.
Despite facing taller and stronger potential opponents at world level, she remains undeterred and is determined to take home a gold medal, aiming to surpass her previous achievements, including a bronze medal at the World Games.
“Yes, I’m fully prepared for them because… Most of the people I train with will say, we’re not going to go to the African Games, we’re not going to say, this is the world, just like I was. to the World Games, where I won a bronze medal, but this time I return with gold.
His journey has not been without its challenges, particularly the lack of adequate support and sponsorship for boxers in Nigeria.
Ogunsemilore mentioned the need for more government and private support to nurture and discover talented boxers who are currently training in non-ideal conditions.
If not for boxing, Ogunsemilore would have pursued a career as a hairdresser, having already trained in the profession. However, his love for boxing has made him put aside other ambitions and focus exclusively on his sport.
Ogunsemilore, a fan of Seyi Shay, finds motivation and solace in music, which helps her stay focused and determined. Her ultimate goal is to make her family, her coaches, and her country proud by excelling in the Olympic Games.
“I am very sure that everyone in my country is happy for me and proud of me. So the only thing that’s going to make them happier is for me to go there and get my gold and they’ll just say my name around the world.
I am a two-time African champion in my weight class, so I will be like a world champion. I’m going there to hit them. “I am going with fire,” he said, brimming with determination.
As Cynthia Ogunsemilore prepares for the biggest stage in sport, she calls on Nigerians to continue supporting their athletes, believing that with the right backing, they can achieve remarkable success on the world stage.
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