“I am definitely in shape and I understand I would have to prove this?I need to fight for the heavyweight championship of the world and I understand that I will have to prove myself worthy. Any of the tests that would be required of me, an EKG, an MRI, an EEG, those kinds of tests, X-rays, things that would be required to obtain a boxing license, were done while I was incarcerated. But I am willing to cooperate and do whatever so that I may obtain my boxing [license] and appear on this card in Las Vegas.” Ike Ibeabuchi
This Nigerian-born heavyweight was a rising star in 1997 when he beat a prime and undefeated Dave Tua and in the process set a record of throwing 975 punches. In 1999, he became the first to knock out slick and talented Chris Byrd taking his record to 20-0. Here he is against a backdrop of James Brown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5FHfXNOZo8
Future stardom seemingly belonged to the muscular 6?2? 240 pound ?President,? but self-destruction lurked just around the corner and ample warnings emerged. The rest of the story has been vetted.
Now finally out of prison, Ike wants to erase the memory of the ?Greatest Who Never Was? and launch an improbable campaign of redemption, but at 43 ?improbable? is the operative word. He has hooked up with Michael Koncz, Manny Pacquiao?s advisor, in a bid to resume his career. In fact, Ike hopes to fight on Pacquiao?s April 9 undercard in Las Vegas –hence the need to be licensed by the NSAC. But it should be noted that Ike was never deemed competent to stand trial and the question of whether his inner demons have been vanquished is a legitimate one.
Maybe boxing will be good for and to the President, maybe not. However, given the troubling circumstances surrounding Ike?s case and the particulars of his mental breakdown, the risks are manifest. The emphasis should be on this man?s health and wellness, but somehow I wonder if that?s where Michael Koncz?s focus is.
