Two-time Nigerian high jump champion Mike Edwards has surprised fans with a career shift, announcing his entry into professional boxing. Edwards, also known for his participation in the Big Brother Naija reality show, revealed the news on his social media handle on Friday.

The former British athlete, who switched allegiance to Nigeria in 2018, boasts a successful athletics career. With a personal best of 2.25m in the high jump, he secured the national title in Nigeria twice (2021 & 2022). He also reached the finals of the African Athletics Championships (2022) and narrowly missed gold at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham last year.

Edwards is set to enter the Cruiserweight division with Misfits Boxing. His debut opponent will be Jake Cornish, though the fight date remains undisclosed.

“Excited to announce my entry into the world of professional boxing!” Edwards declared on social media. “Thrilled to join the Cruiserweight division roster on @MisfitsBoxing. Get ready for an electrifying debut as I step into the ring to showcase my skills and determination.”

This move marks a significant shift for the multi-talented Edwards, who is also an entrepreneur running his own male grooming and cigar company, Aireyys – the first black-owned cigar line in the UK.

His wife, Perri Shakes-Drayton, is a retired British track and field athlete with a decorated career, including a European Indoor Championship gold medal and World Championship relay medals.