Christy Martin of Christy Martin Promotions proudly announces the signing of power-punching cruiserweight contender Efetobor “Nigerian Pit Bull” Apochi (12-3, 12 KOs) to a promotional contract.
Growing up in Ughelli, Nigeria, Apochi studied microbiology at the Federal University of Technology Owerri and started boxing at age 21 after reportedly being involved in over 700 street fights, mostly in high school.
As an amateur, he joined the international scene at the 2011 All-Africa Games, where he surprised the boxing world by taking second. At the 2014 Commonwealth Games, Apochi captained the Nigerian Boxing Team and upset present IBF and Ring Magazine Cruiserweight Champion Jai Opetaia in the quarterfinals.
Apochi finished his amateur career with a record of approximately 64-8.
Possessing natural punching power in both hands that translates well to the professional ranks, Apochi moved to Houston to work with trainer Ronnie Shields and turned pro in 2017, running off 10 straight victories before dropping a razor-thin split decision to then 13-0 Brandon Glanton in 2021.
All three of Apochi’s losses have come to other top contenders via split or majority decision.
“Signing with Christy Martin Promotions is right on time,” said a happy Apochi. “My spirit has never been broken. Even though I’ve had some tough fights, they have only sharpened my craft. Christy Martin Promotions has given me such an opportunity to make a comeback. I’d like to fight in a world title eliminator with the WBC as soon as possible, and before the year ends, fight for the title.”
Now living in Nashville, TN, Apochi says he enjoys a close relationship with trainer Jarrod Houston at Title Boxing Club on Church Street.
“The bond between Jarrod and me is like family. From the moment we connected, we recognized each other, mirroring aspects of ourselves we hadn’t yet seen or acknowledged. And from the start, he saw the light in me, he saw that I am a world champion.”
New promoter Christy Martin says she’s happy to be working with Apochi and sees the potential in the hard-working KO artist.
“CMP is very excited to be in belt hunting season with Apochi,” added new promoter Christy Martin. “All Cruiserweight Champions need to know we are coming!”
