BUSINESS : Football Star Opens Retail Store

The “Nigerian Nightmare” is making a comeback in retail.

Christian Okoye, the NFL’s leading rusher in 1989, opened Christian Okoye Sports in Asuza recently. The former Kansas City Chiefs running back, nicknamed the Nigerian Nightmare in honor of his African homeland and his bruising running style, said he had always dreamed of opening an apparel store.

Okoye, who came to Azusa Pacific University from Nigeria on a track scholarship in 1982, reflected upon his decision to locate the store near his old haunts: “This area is growing. I thought it was a good location. I’ve always wanted to open a sports apparel store and I thought it would be nice to open it so close to my old school.”

His brother, Emmanuel Okoye, said Okoye Sports will sell officially licensed sports apparel and merchandise. The store will not carry sporting equipment.

Christian Okoye missed last season with knee problems. He also recently underwent back surgery. Emmanuel Okoye said his brother is fully recovered and working out in hopes of joining an NFL team.