Nigerian wrestling star Oba Femi says his journey from Lagos to World Wrestling Entertainment was never planned, but every step was intentional.
The 27-year-old, born Isaac Odugbesan, spoke about his rise in an exclusive chat with Larry Madowo on CNN’s African Voices Playmakers. Once a shot put champion studying Visual Arts in Lagos, he earned a scholarship to the University of Alabama after dominating track and field.
“I had dreams of the World Championships and the Olympics,” Odugbesan said. “I chased those goals and did well in everything I tried.”
Wrestling came by surprise. WWE reached out through an Instagram message. He had no wrestling background, but his size, power, and throwing videos caught their eye. “They saw the package,” he said. “When they asked if I wanted to try wrestling, I said yes. The rest is history.”
His ring name, Oba Femi, is rooted in Yoruba. “Oba” means king, and “Femi” means loves me. Put together, it means “the King loves me.” For him, the name is more than a brand. It is a way to carry Nigeria into every arena. From his entrance music to his gear, he blends Nigerian culture into his character. “I don’t want people to see just another wrestler,” he explained. “I want them to see my layers and where I come from.”
Despite the fast fame, Oba Femi says his goal is bigger than titles. He wants to be a symbol for kids watching him now, the same way he once looked up to others. “I want to leave an impact on the next generation so they can feel what I felt growing up.”
His parents, now big wrestling fans, support him fully. And as his star keeps rising in WWE, Oba Femi is proving that Nigerian talent can dominate any stage.
🎥 Credit: CNN News
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