He immediately took time out to pay tribute to women the world over in honour of the country’s Women’s Month and Women’s Day.
“South African women have done so much for this country’s freedom,” says Fadipe.
“Competing in South Africa is a privilege and being able to use my platform to bring attention to Women’s Day is an honour. I’m dedicating my fight to South Africa’s Women’s Month, Women’s Day, South Africa’s women and women all over the world.”
Fadipe was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and relocated to Ireland with his family at the age of eight.
As the only African boys at school, he and his brother were bullied, which led him to taking up boxing at a young age.
“Bullying and abuse, it’s all about using your power over someone else, putting someone else down. I hate that. I believe in helping and picking someone else up, instead.
“I believe in respect, I believe in dignity, and I love the women that made me into the man I am today.
“My mom shaped who I am; I have an 11-month-old daughter, so this is important to me.”
Earlier this year, Fadipe spoke out about the kidnapping of over 300 young girls in Chibok, Nigeria, putting his weight behind the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. – @SabeloBoksburg
