Nigerian-born Irish boxer, Daniel Fakoyede, has set his sights on conquering the global heavyweight boxing scene after an explosive entry into the professional ranks with a first-round knockout victory in Dublin.
The 27-year-old fighter, who competes in the Super Heavyweight category, introduced himself in grand fashion when he stopped Polish opponent, Mateusz Rybarski, just 72 seconds into the first round at the National Stadium in Dublin.
Born on March 17, 1998, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Fakoyede moved with his family to Ireland in October 2000, where he grew up in Dublin. Now fighting under the Irish flag, he has quickly built a reputation as one of the most promising heavyweights in Europe.
His current professional record stands at ten bouts, with seven victories coming by way of knockout a feat that reflects his power and technical precision.
Speaking on his boxing journey, Fakoyede said his love for the sport began during his teenage years, inspired by British-Nigerian world champion Anthony Joshua.
“I wanted to win the love and respect of people just as Anthony Joshua did through his boxing and likeable character,” he said.
Fakoyede began his amateur career in October 2019 under coach Frank Stacey at the Westside Boxing Club, where he developed his craft and earned an amateur record of seven wins and three losses, with a knockout ratio of 71 percent. His progression into professional boxing in 2024 marked a new chapter in his career.
In preparation for the professional circuit, he joined Unit 3 Boxing Gym under coach Niall Barrett and later signed a management deal with Sheer Sports Management, led by former Irish boxer Jason Quigley, in May 2025.
Beyond his boxing ambitions, Fakoyede is driven by a sense of purpose. He hopes to inspire young athletes from immigrant families who may face doubts or discouragement from their parents about pursuing a career in sports.
“I want to create opportunities for those coming after me who come from immigrant families like mine. Many parents are skeptical about boxing, but the sport teaches structure, discipline, and self-control,” he explained.
He also spoke about the mental and emotional strength required to thrive in the sport.
“Boxing isn’t about anger or violence. It’s about dedication, discipline, perseverance, and intelligence. An angry, wild boxer won’t go far, but one with a cool head and a great work ethic will,” he said.
Fakoyede said boxing gave him a sense of direction during his early years in Dublin.
“Boxing gave me structure and kept me disciplined during my tumultuous days growing up,” he noted.
