FACT CHECK: No, this is NOT Osimhen training with chains, tyres

February 1, 2024 3:41 pm

Victor Osimhen has been one of Nigeria’s most impressive performers at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. Although he has just one goal in four games, the striker has been influential in the Super Eagles’ attack.

He has been the team’s source of strength, and his impact became more evident during the second round game against Cameroon where he inspired the Eagles to a 2-0 victory over the Indomitable Lions.

The 25-year-old was a menacing presence for the Cameroonian defence line, chasing down every loose ball and helping the Super Eagles on both ends of the pitch. The 2023 African footballer of the year also provided the assist for the opener by Ademola Lookman.

Following his performance in the game, several Nigerians on social media have been circulating a video of “Osimhen” allegedly in rigorous training mode.

In the viral clip, the subject, who has a similar physique as Osimhen, could be seen undertaking physical training with tyres, chains and concrete slabs.

“You want to know why Osimhen shows so much strength in duels with fellow footballers? Watch his physical training,” Nkirukamma, an X user, wrote as a caption accompanying the video.

The post has so far grossed over 291,000 views as well as thousands of likes and retweets on X(formerly known as Twitter).

The video has also been posted on various accounts and shared multiple times on instant messaging platform WhatsApp.

You want to know why Osimhen shows so much strength in duels with fellow footballers?

Watch his physical training!👍🏿 pic.twitter.com/hZjOr1Ljvt

— Nkirukamma (@SabinaNkiru) January 31, 2024
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King Osimhen, training like a beast using orthodox methods for high effect!
Why won’t CAF call him for a drug test 😂

Bro went beast mode!
Bro took his training back to the ibile ways!

RASHFORD!!!!!
What’s your excuse?#AFCON2023 #AFCON pic.twitter.com/41PTNKA0e9
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— 44.Yommie 🗽 (@itsYomi) February 1, 2024

Victor Osimhen the buster… Training to devour Angola pic.twitter.com/4Zbqb24kkf

— Kingsnetwork (@Kingsnetswork) January 29, 2024
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ADDRESSING THE CONFUSION

TheCable tracked the video to its origin and found that it was uploaded by Ebube David, an online content creator.

David — who is the person in the video training with chains and worn-out tyres — has over 190,000 followers on TikTok and is known for cosplaying as Osimhen.

He uploaded the video on December 13, 2023, with the caption: “Victor Osimhen worked hard to achieve his dream, so can you too.”