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David DefiagbonProfessional Nigerian and Canadian boxer
Date of Birth: 12.06.1970
Country:  Nigeria |
Content:
- David Defiagbon: A Boxer's Journey
- Immigration to Canada
- Olympic Silver Medal
- Professional Career
- Decline and Demise
- Final Chapter
David Defiagbon: A Boxer's Journey
Early Life and Amateur CareerDavid Defiagbon began his boxing journey in his native Nigeria. In 1990, he captured the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games, defeating Canadian Greg Johnson in the final. He represented Nigeria at the 1991 World Championships in Sydney and the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, losing his first bout in the light heavyweight division.
Immigration to Canada
During the Barcelona Olympics, Defiagbon approached Canadian national team coach Taylor Gordon, seeking help with immigration. Citing religious and political persecution as a Christian minority in Nigeria, he made a desperate plea. After a public display in the Olympic village, Defiagbon was arrested in Nigeria but escaped and fled to Canada. Gordon aided him in obtaining citizenship and trained him alongside his son, Wayne.
Olympic Silver Medal
In January 1996, Defiagbon became a Canadian citizen. At the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, he represented Canada in the heavyweight division. After three victories, he faced Cuba's Félix Savón in the final, settling for the silver medal.
Professional Career
Defiagbon turned professional after the Olympics, debuting with a technical knockout victory in 1996. He remained undefeated until 2004, amassing 20 consecutive victories without facing significant opposition. His only professional title was the WBA's Central American heavyweight belt.
Decline and Demise
Defiagbon's career took a downturn after his first defeat to Oleg Maskaev in 2004. He lost his final bout to Juan Carlos Gomez. After retiring from boxing, Defiagbon became a security guard in Las Vegas, reportedly struggling with alcohol and drug abuse.
Final Chapter
On November 24, 2018, David Defiagbon passed away at the age of 48 due to heart problems. He is survived by his daughter.
