Lagos/Las Vegas — In a twist that nobody saw coming, Nigerian singer and songwriter Skales has suddenly found himself back in the international spotlight — thanks to a world-class boxer who turned his decade-old hit into a boxing anthem.

Award-winning professional boxer Gradus Kraus has reportedly paid Skales a staggering $100,000 (₦148.5 million) to officially use the artist’s hit single “Shake Body” as his ring entry, celebration, and exit song.

For Skales, who has battled years of public criticism, mockery, and the label of being a “failed artiste,” the unexpected revival of “Shake Body” marks both redemption and poetic justice.

From Stadium Chants to Viral Fame

The drama unfolded during Kraus’ latest fight night. As the packed arena lights dimmed and his entrance music thundered through the stadium speakers, more than 30,000 fans erupted in unison. They weren’t just cheering for Kraus’ arrival; they were dancing and singing along to “Shake Body.”

Clips from the night quickly went viral across TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter (X), showing thousands of boxing fans from across the world — many of whom had never even heard of Skales before — joyfully chanting his lyrics.

What was supposed to be Kraus’ moment of intimidation against his opponent unexpectedly became a cultural revival for Skales.

“I’ve walked out to many songs before, but nothing has ever shifted the energy of a crowd like this,” Kraus later told reporters. “That rhythm, that vibe… it’s exactly what a champion needs walking into the ring. I had to make it official.”

A Second Chance for a “Failed Artiste”

For over a decade, Skales has been the subject of heated debates in the Nigerian music industry. After early promise under the legendary Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) label alongside superstars like Wizkid, Skales struggled to maintain consistent mainstream success.

Despite occasional hits and loyal fans, critics frequently labeled him a “one-hit wonder” or dismissed him as an artist who “never fulfilled his potential.” The taunts on social media were merciless.

But with “Shake Body” — a track released more than ten years ago — suddenly becoming the soundtrack to an international sports spectacle, Skales now finds himself rebranded overnight.

“I was mocked, ridiculed, and laughed at,” Skales admitted in a recent Instagram Live. “Some people even said I should quit music entirely. But look at God. A song I made back then is now bringing me recognition across the world. This isn’t just my win, it’s for everyone who’s ever been underestimated.”

Kraus Extends an Invitation

The collaboration between Kraus and Skales is only just beginning. Following the overwhelming reaction to his boxing entrance, Kraus has personally invited Skales to walk into the ring with him live at his next scheduled match, where more than 50,000 fans are expected in attendance.

According to sources close to the boxer’s camp, negotiations are already underway to have Skales perform “Shake Body” live during Kraus’ grand entrance — a spectacle that could further boost both their brands.

Kraus also hinted that he might collaborate with Skales for promotional events, citing the artist’s energy and resilience as a “perfect fit” for his championship journey.

Industry Shockwaves

The news has sent shockwaves through the African music industry and beyond.

Entertainment critics note that it’s rare for a song released over a decade ago to suddenly resurface with such momentum, particularly in an international sporting arena. Some industry veterans see this as proof that no song is ever truly “finished” in the streaming era.

“Music has no expiry date,” said Nigerian music journalist Chika Onwuchekwa. “In the digital age, a track can sleep for years and then suddenly explode because of the right exposure. This is Skales’ moment, and it shows how powerful global cultural crossovers can be.”

Already, streaming platforms are reporting surges in “Shake Body” streams across Spotify, Apple Music, and Boomplay. On TikTok, dance challenges using the track are beginning to trend, with young fans discovering the song for the first time.

From Mockery to Motivation

For Skales, the moment is more than just financial — it’s deeply personal. Having spent years defending his craft against harsh comparisons to Nigerian Afrobeats juggernauts like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, this revival feels like vindication.

“This isn’t just about me,” Skales said. “It’s about never giving up, even when the world turns its back on you. They said I was finished, but here we are — bigger than ever.”

Kraus, too, seemed to emphasize this theme of resilience: “Skales’ story inspires me. In boxing, people count you out after one bad fight. But a real champion always comes back. That’s why this music speaks to me.”

What’s Next?

With international buzz now swirling around his name, Skales is reportedly back in the studio, considering both new singles and collaborations. Music insiders hint that several international acts are already reaching out to him, eager to tap into the momentum.

As for Kraus, he remains focused on his upcoming fight, where he promises fans an even bigger spectacle. And if Skales joins him on stage, it could mark one of the most unforgettable crossovers between sports and Afrobeats music in recent memory.

From mockery to millions, from “failed artiste” to viral resurgence — Skales’ story is a reminder that in music, just like in boxing, it only takes one good punch to change everything.