Popular Nigerian singer and guitarist Gbemiro Tokunbo Akingbogun, popularly known as GT Da Guitarman, speaks on his music career, passion for boxing and the connection between music and sports in this interview with Muthmainah Ishola
What do you enjoy doing for fun when you’re not making music?
When I’m not making music, I’m either engaging with my fans on TikTok Live, trading in the financial markets, or spending time with my family. I’m also a boxing fan, and I enjoy watching fights whenever I have the time. I practise yoga, meditation, and physical movements, including kicks. But honestly, my life revolves around music. Even when I’m on TikTok Live, I’m usually playing my guitar or engaging with my fans through music.
How much of a sports fan would you say you are?
I love sports, but boxing is my favourite. What fascinates me about boxing is the discipline, alertness, and mental conditioning it requires. You have to know how to attack without getting hit, protect yourself, and stay focused throughout the fight. I also admire the physical preparation involved. Boxing combines movement, strategy, and mental strength, and I find that incredibly fascinating.
What sports do you enjoy watching the most, and why?
Boxing, without a doubt. I also enjoy lawn tennis, but nothing comes close to boxing for me. I love watching Anthony Joshua, Oleksandr Usyk, Nigerian boxers like Efe Ajagba and Elizabeth Oshoba, and upcoming talents. I’m particularly interested in the revival of boxing culture and appreciate the efforts of organisers working to bring the sport back into the spotlight. I also admire the legacy of Nigerian boxing legend Bash Ali and his ambition to break records. As for celebrity boxing matches, I don’t find many of them particularly impressive, although I respect the entertainers involved.
We know you’re a boxing fan. How did you develop an interest in boxing?
My interest in boxing came naturally. I used to love wrestling, but when I realised it wasn’t real competition, I gravitated towards boxing because I appreciate authenticity. What fascinates me is the combination of rhythm, timing, movement, and discipline. As a musician, I can relate to the importance of timing in boxing because you have to know when to throw a punch and when to dodge. I particularly admire southpaw fighters and young talents like Abdullah Mason, who I think is an exceptional boxer.
Do you have a favourite boxer, locally or internationally?
Locally, Efe Ajagba and Elizabeth Oshoba, among others. Internationally, I admire Anthony Joshua, Oleksandr Usyk, and Ryan Garcia. However, Abdullah Mason is one young boxer I’m particularly excited about. He’s incredibly talented, and I believe he’s someone to watch closely.
What is the most memorable boxing match you’ve ever watched?
One of the most memorable fights for me was Mike Tyson versus Evander Holyfield, particularly their infamous 1997 rematch in Las Vegas. The fight became unforgettable when Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear, showing just how unpredictable boxing can be. It was a moment that couldn’t have been scripted, and I don’t think boxing fans will ever forget it.
Do you have a favourite football team, or is boxing your number-one sport?
Boxing is definitely my number-one sport. I used to enjoy football more, and Barcelona was one of my favourite teams because of Lionel Messi. I also loved Arsenal during Thierry Henry’s time there, and I have a soft spot for Chelsea and Manchester City. I still watch Nigeria’s matches, but football isn’t something I follow religiously. I also enjoy lawn tennis and watching players like Serena Williams, Venus Williams, and Novak Djokovic.
Have you ever played any sports growing up?
Yes, I’ve played quite a number of sports, including football, basketball, snooker, and table tennis. I have fond memories of J Kings Basketball Club in Festac Town, where many talented young players trained and inspired the community. Shout-out to everyone who contributed to that club, especially Coach Kochi. I hope someone will invest in developing sports facilities in the area again. These days, running is the sport I practise most consistently. I run about three times a week, and my current best is 6.65 kilometres in under 45 minutes. At 42, I still enjoy staying active, even though I don’t compete professionally.
Do you think musicians and athletes have similar lifestyles?
I think musicians and athletes share some similarities, particularly discipline, dedication, and the physical and mental demands of their professions. A touring musician must maintain stamina, remember lyrics, and stay mentally focused, just as an athlete must prepare for competition. Both also have fans who support and motivate them. However, sports are generally more physically demanding and competitive, and athletes have a limited period during which they can perform at their peak. Musicians can continue creating and performing for much longer. For me, discipline is the key connection: doing today what you committed to doing yesterday.
Is there any sports personality you look up to, and what do you admire about them?
I admire Anthony Joshua for his humility and willingness to learn. Oleksandr Usyk impresses me with his dedication to training and his commitment to boxing. Tyson Fury inspires me because of how he overcame personal struggles and returned to the top of his sport. His journey reminds me that it’s never too late to rise again and that it’s not over until you decide it is. I believe there’s something to learn from anyone who has reached the top of their game.
Do you have a celebrity or athlete crush?
My celebrity crush would be Simone Biles. I think she’s beautiful, but I also admire her strength and resilience. Watching her overcome mental health challenges, confront her fears, and return to competition stronger is inspiring. She’s a decorated champion and a strong-willed Black woman, which makes her even more admirable to me.
Have you ever had the opportunity to meet a boxer or sports personality you admire?
I’ve had the opportunity to meet several Nigerian football legends, including Kanu Nwankwo, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Joseph Yobo. Meeting them was an incredible experience, and I was genuinely starstruck. Even though football isn’t my favourite sport, I never miss Nigeria’s matches, and I have tremendous respect for these legends who have represented our country so well.
Do you think Nigerian sports can learn anything from the entertainment industry, especially in terms of publicity and attracting sponsorships?
Absolutely. Nigerian sports authorities need to do a better job of presenting and taking care of our athletes. Seeing the Super Eagles reportedly being transported in poorly arranged vehicles was disappointing, especially considering that these players represent millions of Nigerians and compete at the highest levels internationally. We need better publicity, sponsorship, facilities, and overall treatment for our sports stars. There should also be proper pension plans and support systems for athletes after retirement. Unlike musicians, who can continue earning royalties and performing long after releasing their music, many retired athletes are forgotten. These people have given so much to the country, and we owe them better care and support.
If you had to choose between attending a major boxing match and a concert by your favourite artiste, which would you choose?
I’d choose the boxing match, especially if it were a major fight. I’ve watched many of my favourite musicians perform several times, and I’ll likely get more opportunities to see them again. But a major fight, such as Anthony Joshua versus Tyson Fury, is a rare experience that I wouldn’t want to miss.
What kind of music do you enjoy listening to when you’re relaxing?
I used to listen mostly to soul music and R&B, but these days, I listen to a lot of Afrobeats. There’s something special about African rhythms, especially when an artiste truly understands the sound. I now listen to all kinds of music and deliberately explore unusual sounds to see how I can incorporate Afrobeats into them. For me, every sound offers an opportunity to create something new.
Is there any artiste you would love to collaborate with?
After 21 years in the music industry, I’ve learnt that every artiste has something unique to offer. I’d love to collaborate with artistes across different styles, from Rema to Portable. I’d also love to work with Omah Lay, with whom I competed in Next Rated, as well as Adekunle Gold and my brother, Kizz Daniel. Kizz and I have discussed collaborating for a while, and we just need to get into the studio and make it happen. I’m also excited by Ayra Starr’s music and the emotions she brings to her sound.
What has been your best Nigerian sports moment?
That would be Nigeria’s 4–3 victory over Brazil at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. I was a child, and I remember watching the match with my father, who loved football. When Nwankwo Kanu scored the winning goal, it was an unforgettable moment of national pride. It was one of those moments that brought Nigerians together, and I hope our athletes give us more memories like that.
If you could meet any boxer in the world, dead or alive, who would it be?
I’d love to meet several boxers, including Gervonta Davis and Ryan Garcia, but Abdullah Mason would be at the top of my list. There’s something special about his style, particularly the way he fights as a southpaw. He’s a remarkable young talent, and I’d love to speak with him and understand what makes him so good at his craft.
If you could create an entrance song for a Nigerian boxer fighting for a world title, what kind of song would it be?
I’d create a song that matches the rhythm, energy, and atmosphere of the moment, but the boxer’s preference would come first. An entrance song is a personal war song, so it should reflect what motivates the fighter. For example, someone like Ryan Garcia, who enjoys worship music, might prefer that kind of sound. Once I understand a boxer’s personality and watch them train for a few minutes, I believe I can create something that fits them perfectly and gets them mentally ready for the fight. I’d love for a boxer to give me that opportunity. I believe the right song can make a real difference to their confidence and energy.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you outside music?
People might be surprised to learn that I have an unusual sleep schedule. I often go to bed around 5 p.m. and wake up between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. I enjoy training at night, doing movements and kicks, because it helps me feel energised, focused, and ready to work at my best. Since musicians often perform at night, I’ve conditioned myself to sleep early and wake up when most people are asleep. It’s not insomnia; it’s simply a routine that works for my lifestyle and performance schedule.