In the final days of 2019, boxing enthusiasts have two distinct events to look forward to. The first, taking place on a Sunday afternoon, features a series of bouts from Nigeria's bustling capital. Meanwhile, as the year transitions into the new decade, fans can tune in early Tuesday morning for a rematch between two top-tier fighters. Both events offer unique perspectives on the sport, showcasing talent from different regions and highlighting the global reach of boxing.

Battle of the Ages Xplosion Lights Up Lagos

On a warm December afternoon, Lagos, Nigeria will be abuzz with excitement as TrillerTV+ broadcasts "Battle of the Ages 10.0: Xplosion" at noon Eastern Time. This seven-fight card promises to deliver thrilling action, culminating in an eight-round main event featuring Ridwan Oyekola and Tosin Osaigbovo. Additionally, one ten-round bout will see two up-and-coming fighters, each with three professional outings under their belts, compete for supremacy. While these names may not resonate with casual fans, they are well-known within Nigeria's vibrant domestic boxing scene. As the last boxing show of the year on a recognized US platform, it offers a rare glimpse into the talent emerging from West Africa.

Martinez and Ioka Clash Again in Tokyo

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, Tokyo prepares for a highly anticipated rematch between Fernando Martinez and Kazuto Ioka. This encounter, scheduled for 1:00 AM Eastern Time on Tuesday, marks the second meeting between these two super flyweight champions. In July, Martinez unified the IBF title with Ioka’s WBA belt via unanimous decision. Now, he has chosen to relinquish the IBF strap to pursue this rematch rather than defend against a mandatory challenger. With nine fights on the undercard, viewers can expect the main event to kick off around 6:00 or 7:00 AM Eastern Time. Fans in the US and UK can stream the event for $4.99 through ABEMA, an Asian platform known for its coverage of combat sports. For those willing to stay up late or wake up early, this fight promises to be a memorable way to ring in the new year.

These two events serve as a testament to the universal appeal of boxing. From Lagos to Tokyo, the sport continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you're tuning in for familiar champions or discovering new talent, these bouts offer a fitting conclusion to a year filled with excitement and drama in the ring.