Oba Femi Bio
Early Life and Background
Isaac Odugbesan, known by his ring name Oba Femi, was born on April 22, 1998, in Lagos, Nigeria. He is the son of Maria and Niyi Odugbesan. From a young age, he was captivated by professional wrestling, with iconic figures like Triple H and The Undertaker serving as his inspirations. Odugbesan attended the University of Lagos, where he excelled in track and field, winning ten shot put medals during his freshman year at the Nigerian University Games Association.
In 2017, he moved to the United States to pursue a track and field scholarship at Middle Tennessee State University. His athletic prowess earned him recognition as Conference USA Male Freshman of the Year. He later transferred to the University of Alabama, where he continued to excel in shot put, winning multiple titles before graduating in May 2022 with a degree in visual arts.
Path to WWE
Odugbesan’s journey to professional wrestling began when he signed with WWE in December 2021 as part of their Next In Line program, aimed at developing collegiate athletes into potential WWE superstars. Following his graduation, he trained at the WWE Performance Center, where he honed his skills in preparation for his wrestling debut. He made his in-ring debut at an NXT live event on November 11, 2022, starting his professional wrestling career.
Oba Femi Career
Early Career (2022)
Oba Femi’s early career in professional wrestling began with his debut at an NXT live event in November 2022. Although he lost his first match to Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo, he quickly made a name for himself in the NXT brand. His on-screen debut occurred on the November 18 episode of NXT Level Up, where he faced Dante Chen. Despite the loss, Femi’s determination and skill were evident.
NXT Breakthrough (2023)
Femi’s breakthrough came in 2023 when he defeated Oro Mensah in his formal NXT debut at Spring Breakin’ on April 25. He continued to rise through the ranks, winning the 2023 Men’s NXT Breakout Tournament on January 2, 2024, which granted him a championship opportunity. Shortly after, he cashed in his contract and defeated Dragon Lee to capture the NXT North American Championship, becoming the first graduate of the NIL program to win a championship in WWE. Femi successfully defended his title multiple times, establishing himself as a formidable competitor in the NXT landscape.
WWE Era (2024–Present)
In 2024, Oba Femi continued to impress, culminating in his victory in the Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge, which earned him an NXT Championship match. He defeated Trick Williams in a triple threat match to win the NXT Championship, marking another milestone as the first NIL program graduate to secure a top championship in WWE. Femi’s reign was marked by successful title defenses against notable competitors, showcasing his skills and resilience.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Oba Femi is known for his athleticism and powerful in-ring style. His background in track and field contributes to his agility and strength, making him a formidable opponent. Femi’s strategic approach to matches, combined with his ability to adapt to various wrestling styles, sets him apart in the competitive landscape of WWE.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Femi’s career highlights include winning the NXT North American Championship and NXT Championship, as well as being recognized as the longest-reigning NXT North American Champion. His impressive record of 30 wins in 31 matches demonstrates his dominance in the ring.
Oba Femi Career Wins
Oba Femi has established himself as a rising star in WWE, with a remarkable record of 30 wins out of 31 matches. His victories include significant championship wins and successful title defenses that have solidified his reputation in the NXT brand.
Current NXT Series Highlights
As of 2025, Oba Femi has achieved notable success in the NXT series, including his championship reigns and impressive match performances. His first championship win came against Dragon Lee for the NXT North American Championship, and he later captured the NXT Championship, further showcasing his talent and dedication.
Previous NXT Series Achievements
Femi’s previous achievements in NXT include winning the 2023 Men’s NXT Breakout Tournament and the Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge. His ability to consistently perform at a high level has made him a key player in the NXT roster.
Oba Femi Family
Family Background and WWE Lineage
Oba Femi comes from a supportive family, with his parents, Maria and Niyi Odugbesan, encouraging his athletic pursuits from a young age. His journey from track and field to professional wrestling has been a source of pride for his family.
Personal Life
Details about Oba Femi’s personal life remain private, as he focuses on his wrestling career and professional development within WWE.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a significant chapter in Oba Femi’s career as he continues to build on his previous successes. After winning the NXT Championship, he has been involved in high-stakes matches and rivalries that have kept him in the spotlight. His recent title defenses have showcased his resilience and adaptability in the ring, solidifying his status as a top contender in WWE. As he navigates the competitive landscape of NXT, Femi’s outlook remains positive, with fans eagerly anticipating his next moves in the ring.
