Nigerian boxer, Dolapo Omole has expressed his disappointment after a knee injury forced him to withdraw from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Omole secured a gold medal in Senegal during the qualifiers, and is seen as a strong contender for Team Nigeria.

“I’m depressed and hoping to rise again stronger because I’m bitterly down. The knee injury is very painful; I wish myself quick recovery,” he said in a statement per the African Boxing Confederation.

Omole’s coach, Adura Olalehin, confirmed the fighter’s withdrawal due to medical reasons.

Meanwhile, Ethiopian boxer Leta Fikremariyam Yadesa will now replace the Nigerian, according to the Sport’s regulatory body.

Omole had previously defeated Yadesa in the African Boxing Olympic Qualification Tournament in September 2023.

With Omole’s exit, Nigeria’s boxing team to Paris 2024 now includes Cynthia Ogunsemilore in the women’s lightweight 60 kg category and Adams Olaore in the men’s heavyweight 92 kg division.