Sports enthusiasts say the defeat of Nigeria’s Anthony Joshua and Kamaru Usman on Sunday is a learning curve in the illustrious careers of both fighters.

Joshua was defeated by Ukraine’s Oleksandr Usyk on a surprise split points decision after 12 hard rounds to retain his WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO world heavyweight boxing belts in Jeddah.

Briton Leon Edwards pulled off a fifth-round head-kick knockout out of nowhere to dethrone Usman and win the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) welterweight title at UFC 278 in Salt Lake City, U.S.

A cross-section of sports enthusiasts who spoke to reporters on Monday said the loss of the Nigerians would only make them stronger and better fighters.

Silas Agara, the president of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN), said that in combat sports, just as in other sports, there are always bound to be hard times, which test one’s resilience as an athlete.

“It is usually not easy to digest everything and come back to fight again, especially for Joshua losing to the same opponent for the second consecutive time. But I strongly believe both fighters will bounce back from this defeat even stronger because of their love and commitment to the sport, which is never in doubt,” he said.

Gbenga Elegbeleye, former director-general of the defunct National Sports Commission, hailed Joshua and Usman despite their defeats, adding that they were still worthy champions in their rights.

“Kudos to Joshua and Usman. What an amazing title fight both Nigerians gave to the world. Both Nigerians are champions in their own rights, having defended their titles on several occasions,” he stated. “Having said that, I must specially congratulate Usyk for representing the great people of Ukraine and showing strength in the face of adversity and difficulty.”

Godwin Bamigboye, former chairman of Nigeria Coaches Association, FCT branch, said they must be congratulated for their numerous achievements.

He stressed that it was unfortunate that up till now, there was no message from the presidency or the Ministry of Sports showing solidarity with Joshua and Usman.

“These are the athletes who have consistently made Nigeria proud, but now that the chips are down, nothing has been heard from these administrators and government functionaries,” he said. “It wouldn’t have been a bad idea to stand with them at this trying time in their careers. This shows that they only associate with success but never the process. Once you attain the glory, they show up for you.”

Usman had reacted to his defeat on his official Twitter handle on Sunday, promising to bounce back stronger from the setback.

(NAN)