Chiney Ogwumike's husband is Raphael Akpejiori, a professional heavyweight boxer and former multi-sport collegiate athlete. The couple tied the knot in November 2023 during a high-profile, multi-day celebration in Houston, Texas, that blended traditional Nigerian customs with Western wedding traditions. While Chiney is widely recognized as a WNBA star and prominent ESPN analyst, Raphael carries an equally impressive athletic and academic background.
From their accidental match on a dating app to their shared Nigerian heritage, here's a detailed look at Raphael Akpejiori's life, career, and relationship with the basketball standout.
Early Life and Background
Raphael Akpejiori was born on October 10, 1990, in Lagos, Nigeria. Growing up in a large family with five siblings, sports played a central role in his youth. His height and natural athleticism caught the attention of scouts early on, leading him to attend a basketball camp in South Africa.
That opportunity paved the way for him to move to the United States as a teenager. He attended Sunrise Christian Academy in Kansas, where he honed his basketball skills and prepared for the collegiate level. His parents instilled a strong work ethic; his father worked as a banker and attorney, while his mother managed a local enterprise.
Collegiate Sports and Academic Pursuits
Upon graduating high school, Raphael was heavily recruited and earned a basketball scholarship to the University of Miami. He played as a forward for the Hurricanes for four seasons, balancing a demanding athletic schedule with rigorous academics.
Demonstrating versatility off the court, Raphael earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Miami. He even spent time working with the university's Energy Department.
After finishing his basketball eligibility, his athletic journey took an unexpected turn. He transitioned to football, playing as a graduate student before participating in the Miami Dolphins rookie training camp in 2015. Though football wasn't his final destination, the stint proved his physical adaptability.
Transition to Professional Boxing
In 2018, Raphael entered the world of professional boxing. Standing towering and powerful, he transitioned into the heavyweight division. He trained with notable names, including former world light-heavyweight champion Glen Johnson, who noted that while Raphael started as a raw talent, his work ethic drove steady improvements in the ring.
Fighting out of the United States, Raphael built a reputation as a formidable heavyweight contender, maintaining an active professional career while balancing other entrepreneurial and personal ventures.
How Chiney Ogwumike and Raphael Met
The romance between Chiney and Raphael began in the modern digital age through the dating app Hinge. According to interviews with outlets like Essence, Chiney initially needed some convincing to download the app. Bored during a flight home, she set specific filters looking for Christian men who were at least 6 feet 5 inches tall. Raphael's profile immediately caught her eye.
The pair connected instantly, texting and talking for over six months before meeting in person. For their first official date, Chiney invited Raphael to join her as a date at a Burna Boy concert in Los Angeles. The shared love for music and Nigerian culture set a strong foundation for their relationship.
The Proposal and Lavish Wedding
After dating for a couple of years, Raphael popped the question on December 24, 2022, right after Christmas Eve mass.
In November 2023, the couple celebrated their union with a spectacular five-day wedding event in Houston, Texas. The celebration honored both of their backgrounds, specifically blending Chiney's Igbo heritage with Raphael's Edo roots.
- The Guest List: Over 1,000 guests attended the multi-day festivities, including notable sports figures like former WNBA star Lisa Leslie and music artists like Adekunle Gold.
- The Events: The week featured a welcome party, a traditional Nigerian wedding ceremony, a full-circle return to a Burna Boy concert experience, and a classic Western white wedding.
- The Food: The menu showcased a fusion of cultures, ranging from traditional Nigerian dishes like jollof rice and egusi soup to Texas barbecue and Italian cuisine.
Because of their demanding career schedules in sports and media, the couple opted out of a traditional immediate honeymoon. Instead, they embarked on a series of "mini-moons"—extended weekend getaways to destinations like Bora Bora and Aruba.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Raphael Akpejiori's height?
Raphael stands approximately 6 feet 8 inches tall, making him an imposing presence in the boxing ring and a natural fit for basketball.
Did Raphael Akpejiori play in the NBA?
No. While Raphael played college basketball for the University of Miami for four seasons, he did not play professionally in the NBA. He later transitioned to college football and subsequently professional boxing.
Where is Raphael Akpejiori from?
He was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to the United States for high school and college.
Do Chiney Ogwumike and Raphael Akpejiori have children?
As of 2026, the couple focuses on their respective careers in professional sports and media while enjoying married life, with no children announced publicly.
