Nigerian martial artist Henry Hendrix emerged one of the standout performers at the 2025 Chinese Ambassador’s Cup Wushu Championship held in Abuja, after winning two gold medals and one silver in both Taolu demonstrations and Sanda (combat) events.
The championship, jointly organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the Wushu Federation of Nigeria, drew top athletes from across the country, aiming to foster cultural exchange and sports diplomacy between China and Nigeria.
Hendrix showcased exceptional mastery in the Taolu category, where competitors performed choreographed martial arts routines that emphasized balance, speed, and precision. He also excelled in the Sanda division, a full-contact combat event, clinching gold in one of the most fiercely contested bouts of the competition.
Speaking after his victory, Hendrix said his triumph was a tribute to young Nigerian athletes striving to make the nation proud through martial arts.
“I dedicate these medals to all young Nigerians who believe in discipline and hard work. I thank the organizers for giving us a platform to express our passion and promote mutual understanding through sport,” he said.
Officials from the Chinese Embassy commended Nigerian participants, noting that the tournament was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Nigeria–China friendship through sports, youth empowerment, and cultural cooperation.
The Embassy added that the Wushu Championship continues to serve as a platform to deepen bilateral ties and encourage youth participation in martial arts.
For Hendrix, this victory adds to a growing list of accomplishments. He made history in 2015 as the first African to win three gold medals at the Worldwide Wushu Kungfu Taijiquan International Competition, further cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s top martial artists.
Now an annual highlight in Nigeria’s martial arts calendar, the Chinese Ambassador’s Cup Wushu Championship continues to inspire young athletes and strengthen cultural bridges between both nations through the spirit of discipline, respect, and mutual learning.
