Ghanaian boxing in 2024: A year of highs and lows

By Graphic.com.gh

The year 2024 was another tumultuous chapter for Ghanaian boxing. Despite being a nation with a proud boxing heritage, Ghana concluded the year without a world champion.

The country’s pugilists faced numerous setbacks on international stages, with most suffering losses abroad, a trend that dampened the sport’s reputation.

Nevertheless, the domestic scene offered some solace with thrilling bouts and exciting developments across the nation, particularly in Accra, which once again proved to be the epicentre of boxing promotions.

The capital city hosted 43 of the 54 sanctioned fights by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), with other regions, including Kumasi, Aflao, Akatsi, Denu, Ho, and Akropong, also contributing to the sport’s local vibrancy as part of the GBA’s effort to decentralise boxing.

This year saw a wave of fresh promotional syndicates entering the Ghanaian boxing scene, adding to the sport’s dynamism.

Legacy Rise Sports, spearheaded by Sharaf Mahama, alongside other entities such as Ayitey Powers Promotions, Twinstars, Shiatse Promotions, and Nana’s Promotions, invigorated the sport with new events and talent showcases.

January: Drama in the Boxing League

The 2023 Ghana Professional Boxing League concluded dramatically in January, with the defending champions, Charles Quartey Boxing Foundation, facing Ghana Army for the ultimate prize.

The finale on January 13 at the Bukom Boxing Arena ended in chaos as confusion erupted, leading to the cancellation of the deciding fight.

Eventually, the organisers, Imax Promotions, in consultation with the GBA, declared Ghana Army the champions based on prior results.

March: Continental crowns and rising stars

March was pivotal for Ghanaian boxing, as promising talents clinched continental titles. Faisal Abubakari triumphed over Uganda’s Latibu Muwonge in Shukura to claim the WBO Africa junior welterweight title.

Abubakari later defended his title twice, finishing the year with an unbeaten record.

Another standout was Daniel Selassie Gorsh, who dominated Moses Adjei Selvi to claim the UBO Africa super bantamweight title during the Independence Day Rumble. Gorsh’s relentless performances earned him the WBO Africa bantamweight crown in September, solidifying his status as a strong contender for Ghanaian Fighter of the Year.

The month also saw Samuel “No Chance” Quaye seize the Ghana super lightweight championship in Weija, while Twinstars Promotions debuted in spectacular fashion.

April: Upsets and controversy

Boxing action reached Kumasi in April, with Stanley Nyantakyi defeating Emmanuel “Akufo-Addo” Quartey to become Ghana featherweight champion.

However, the biggest upset occurred at Kawukudi Park, where Nigerian Idowu Rasheed shocked fans by knocking out Bastie Samir.

The controversial decision by GBA officials to declare the fight a technical draw sparked widespread criticism.

After reviewing the footage, the Universal Boxing Organisation (UBO) overruled the GBA and awarded Rasheed the victory and the UBO Africa Light Heavyweight title.

UK-based Seth Gyimah, popularly known as Freezy Macbones, made a remarkable return to professional boxing in May.

After an unsuccessful attempt to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Macbones won his Ghanaian debut by stopping Gabriel Adoku in round two.

He ended the year with an impressive 10-0 record, all via knockouts, establishing himself as a rising star to watch.

June to August: More titles and challenges

Holy Dorgbetor, nicknamed “Jaw Breaker,” clinched the IBF Continental Africa featherweight title in June, a feat he defended successfully in November.

Ayitey Powers Promotions debuted disastrously with chaotic events in June and November, highlighting organisational challenges within the local boxing scene.

In August, Legacy Rise Sports Promotions held its first event, showcasing talents such as Theophilus Kpakpo Allotey, who transitioned to the professional ranks with notable victories.

Former Black Bombers, including Joseph “Jaguar” Commey and Samuel Takyi, also made waves, with Commey securing the UBO lightweight belt in his professional debut.

Historic moment for women’s boxing

November marked a historic milestone as Abigail Kwartekaa Quartey became Ghana’s first female world champion.

Her unanimous victory over the UK’s Sangeeta Birdi for the WIBF super bantamweight title was a testament to her skill and determination, earning her national acclaim.

On the international front, Ghanaian boxers largely struggled. Only John Abaja Laryea, the WBO Africa champion, recorded a victory abroad with a unanimous decision win in Orlando, Florida.

The rest faced defeat, starting with Jacob Dickson’s loss in France in January and ending with Joshua Abubakari Quartey’s stoppage in Liverpool in December.

Despite the setbacks, Ghanaian boxing retained its grit and determination. Boxers and their trainers expressed optimism for a resurgence in 2025, citing lessons learned from the challenges faced this year.

The need for better preparation, sponsorship, and exposure to elite competitions was underscored as a priority for the coming years.    

Role of the GBA in the sport’s future

The Ghana Boxing Authority played a crucial role in maintaining the sport’s structure amidst the highs and lows of 2024.

However, criticism of its leadership grew louder, with calls for transparency and stronger governance in managing the sport.

As the year wraps up with two remaining shows, the spotlight shifts to the upcoming GBA presidential elections. Incumbent Abraham Kotei Neequaye faces criticism for his tenure, with challengers like Alex Ntiamoah-Boakye, Ivan Bruce Cudjoe, and Roger Barnor eyeing the top position.

The stakes are high as Ghanaian boxing navigates its challenges and opportunities, aiming for a brighter 2025.