Nigeria goalkeeper Carl Ikeme opens up on new life after cancer treatment

By Monsurah Olatunji

Former Nigeria international Carl Ikeme has revealed how practicing Mixed Martial Arts inspires him after recovering from his life-threatening cancer treatment.

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper was diagnosed with acute leukemia in July 2017 which forced him to hang up his gloves and go into full remission a year later.

Ikeme who made 207 appearances for Wolves across 15 years at the club played 10 matches for the Super Eagles, playing a part in Nigeria’s qualification for Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup by featuring in the first three matches.

The 36-year-old says he has only recently been able to enjoy watching football again after the reluctance to accept what forced him from doing what he loves best.

However, he has found joy in a new sport after his long recovery process as the Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which is more of grappling and ground fighting gave him the purpose to start training again.

“I’ve come to terms with life after football,” Ikeme told BBC Sport.

“I’ve started to enjoy football a little bit more. When I first come out I wasn’t really interested in watching it too much but I’ve been to quite a few Wolves games this season. It’s good.

“I love family life, obviously doing all the arts, working. I’m always trying to strive for balance and never quite get it right but that’s my new life now really. Just enjoying football as a fan.

“A part of my recovery was to get back in the gym. I’d lost three stone at one point. I was extremely unhealthy coming out of cancer treatment. I think what the arts and especially Brazilian jiu-jitsu gave me was a purpose to train again.”