Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed shortly after completing a 12-round draw against Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata on Aug. 2.

He underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma — a condition where blood collects between the brain and skull – but died on Friday.

“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari,” the World Boxing Organization wrote on social media. “The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight.

“A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team, and the entire Japanese boxing community.”

On Saturday, fellow 28-year-old Hiromasa Urakawa died after suffering the same injury during a knockout loss to Yoji Saito. He had undergone a craniotomy in an attempt to save his life.

“This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered in his fight on the same card,” the WBO said in another social media post on Saturday. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”

In response, the Japanese Boxing Commission has announced all OPBF title bouts will now be reduced from 12 rounds to 10.

Earlier this year, Irish boxer John Cooney died a week after being taken into intensive care following his Celtic super-featherweight title defeat to Nathan Howells in Belfast.

Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed shortly after completing a 12-round draw against Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata on Aug. 2.

He underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma — a condition where blood collects between the brain and skull – but died on Friday.

“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari,” the World Boxing Organization wrote on social media. “The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight.

“A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team, and the entire Japanese boxing community.”

On Saturday, fellow 28-year-old Hiromasa Urakawa died after suffering the same injury during a knockout loss to Yoji Saito. He had undergone a craniotomy in an attempt to save his life.

“This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered in his fight on the same card,” the WBO said in another social media post on Saturday. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”

In response, the Japanese Boxing Commission has announced all OPBF title bouts will now be reduced from 12 rounds to 10.

Earlier this year, Irish boxer John Cooney died a week after being taken into intensive care following his Celtic super-featherweight title defeat to Nathan Howells in Belfast.

Source: CNN

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Eubank beat Benn by unanimous decision in a thrilling middleweight contest at the same venue in April.

Despite no title being on the line, the bout between the bitter foes – which took place 35 years after their fathers, Chris Eubank Sr and Nigel Benn, first fought – garnered huge attention.

And after Eubank was named the winner 116-112 on all three judges’ scorecards, a rematch was wanted by fans and touted by promoters.

A second bout had been agreed for 20 September, however, it fell through amid concerns Eubank would not be ready.

Now organisers Ring Magazine, which is owned by Turki Alalshikh, have announced the rematch will take place on 15 November.

Eddie Hearn, Benn’s promoter and chairman of Matchroom Boxing, also shared the same date via Instagram.

Eubank and his camp have not yet commented on the announcement.

The Ukrainian is now an undefeated, three-time undisputed world champion.

Usyk shook up his rival champion in the fifth round and dropped the Briton to his knees with a lead right hook at the end of a fierce exchange.

Dubois rose from the first knockdown. But Usyk found a finish of ruthless beauty, lining up a left hook that toppled the bigger man over on his back.

Image: Daniel Dubois falls to the canvas after being knocked down by Oleksandr Usyk at Wembley

The Londoner was stunned. He lay listless on the canvas, propped on one elbow but unable to beat the count.

With the fight waved off, Usyk crumpled to his knees, overwhelmed with emotion.

It marked a historic feat for the great Ukrainian.

Undisputed first at cruiserweight, Usyk, a London 2012 Olympic gold medallist, became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in a quarter of a century, and the first of the four belt era, when he first beat Tyson Fury last year.

The 38-year-old never lost the IBF championship in the ring, but could not make a mandatory defence of that when he went into an immediate rematch with Fury.

That saw Usyk vacate the IBF belt ahead of his second points victory over Fury and Dubois, previously the Interim titlist, elevated to full champion.

The Londoner had lost his first fight to Usyk in 2023 but would insist later that a beltline blow shouldn’t have been ruled low. Usyk had visited the canvas after that strike from Dubois, using his allotted time to recover from the infringement. Uysk rose and put Dubois down in the ninth round of that first fight where he was counted out.

Dubois and his team though were adamant afterwards that he’d hurt Usyk legitimately and could do so again. The 27-year-old took even more confidence from his last fight too, when he brutally knocked out Anthony Joshua in just five rounds last year, also at Wembley Stadium.

It was a performance that announced Dubois as a world-level threat and potentially the most dangerous puncher in the sport. He came into this rematch at the peak of his powers and with a new sense of self-belief.

Dubois did start positively in the first round, edging on to the front foot and holding the centre of the ring. But Usyk masterfully feinted with his southpaw jab, raising the lead right up, darting it down and he started to connect.

In the closing seconds of the first round, Usyk opened up with a brace of hooks.

Dubois held his lead left low and loose, looking to bring it in as Usyk peppered him with punches.

The Briton launched a right down on his opponent, but Usyk at once planted a solid backhand on his chin, landing with force.

In the third round Dubois struck with a flush right hand to the chin. But Usyk could still counter expertly with vicious lefts.

Dubois kept pressure on Usyk, booming rights flying into Usyk’s guard, though a shot also strayed on to the beltline too. The Ukrainian jabbed to the head, to set up a left cross to the body. A neat left hook whipped round the Londoner’s guard too.

In the fifth round, Usyk triggered Dubois’ downfall. He stepped in with a one-two combination. Dubois tried to blast punches back at him. But Usyk had seen the vulnerabilities and didn’t hesitate to apply the perfect, final flourishes.

They fired their punches into each other, but Usyk’s were the accurate shots, shaking up Dubois, dropping him twice and leaving no questions about their rivalry, and no dispute about his own greatness.

“38 is a young guy, remember. 38 is only the start,” Usyk said in triumph. “This is for the people, it’s for our world’s people.

“This is enough. Next? I don’t know. I want to rest.

“I want to go back home to my wife, my family.”

‘I gave everything I had’

“I have to commend him, I gave everything I had,” Dubois said afterwards. “There we some things I could have sharpened up on, but I’ll be back.

“I was in a fight, I was trying to pick it round by round, but it is what it is, I’ll be back.”

The announcement was contained in a press release circulated on Wednesday night by the GBA’s Communications Director, Mohammed Amin Lamptey, via WhatsApp.

“I deeply regret to inform fellow Ghanaians that I am resigning as the president of Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) due to personal reasons,” Mr. Neequaye disclosed in the statement.

He described the decision as “difficult to make,” but indicated that it was “the best course of action for me and some executive board members with integrity and dignity at this crucial time.”

His resignation will take effect on Friday, June 27, 2025, after an official press conference scheduled for 10:00 am at the GBA Secretariat, where he will formally announce his exit from the role.

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Neequaye expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as president of the GBA, stating, “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities that I have been given as the GBA president. I actually value the insights that I have learned, and I expect them to help me in my future endeavours.”

He clarified that the decision followed “careful considerations of my career goals and personal aspirations.”

Mr. Neequaye also acknowledged the difficult moments faced during his administration, especially when he and some of his board members encountered public criticism.

“Let me seize the opportunity to thank the media landscape for the support you offered me and my board members, especially those of us who suffered character assassination during these difficult times,” he stated.

The GBA President emphasised that the role was entirely voluntary and came without financial benefit.

“I want to thank fellow compatriots wherever you are for being supportive of my professional growth in an office that doesn’t pay salary or allowance but just a sacrificial work to serve others and one’s country,” he wrote.

The press release extended an invitation to media outlets to attend Friday’s press conference “to equip yourself with firsthand information.”

The donation was presented by a GBA delegation when they repatriated the boxer’s remains to Nigeria for burial.

Speaking to Sporty FM, Mrs. Olanrewaju revealed that tensions within her late husband’s family have led to her being sidelined regarding the funds.

“The family members of my husband are fighting over the $3,000 donated by the entourage from Ghana. The money is yet to be given to me,” she said.

She also lamented being excluded from key funeral rites and denied access to her husband’s body and her children during the burial.

“Immediately we received my husband’s body, his family did not allow me to perform my rites. They did not give me and the children access,” she added.

Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju tragically passed away in Ghana after collapsing during a bout against Ghanaian boxer John Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

An autopsy later confirmed that he died of cardiac arrest.

He has since been buried in Nigeria following the return of his remains by the GBA.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/pacers-beat-thunder-to-force-nba-game-seven-decider/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 06:02:54 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2546598 The NBA Finals will be decided by a winner-takes-all game seven for the first time in nine years after the Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91 in game six to level the series.

A fine attacking display from the Pacers, which included 20 points for Obi Toppin off the bench, stopped the Thunder from claiming the Championship in Indianapolis.

Star player Tyrese Haliburton, who missed game five with a calf injury, passed a late fitness test before tip-off and managed 14 points, five assists and two steals in 22 minutes of play.

“We just wanted to protect our court,” Haliburton said.

“We didn’t want to see those guys celebrate a championship on our home floor. Backs against the wall, we just responded.

“So many different guys chipped in. It was a whole team effort. I’m really proud of this group.”

The victory means the NBA finals will go to game seven for the first time since 2016, when the Cleveland Cavaliers won their first Championship with a 4-3 series win against the Golden State Warriors.

The Thunder will host game seven on Monday (01:00 BST) but will need a much improved performance to win their first Championship since 1979.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the newly-crowned Most Valuable Player, top scored for the Thunder with 21 points but his side paid the price for missing their first eight shots of the game, which gave the Pacers an early eight-point lead.

“Credit Indiana,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “They earned the win. They outplayed us for most of the 48 minutes. They went out there and attacked the game.”

Monday’s game will mark the 20th time the NBA Finals have gone to game seven, with the home side in the decider triumphing 15 times.

Results

Game one: Thunder 110-111 Pacers (Indiana lead 1-0)

Game two: Thunder 123-107 Pacers (Series tied 1-1)

Game three: Pacers 116-103 Thunder (Indiana lead 2-1)

Game four: Pacers 104-111 Thunder (Series tied 2-2)

Game five: Thunder 120-109 Pacers (Oklahoma Cit lead 3-2)

Game six: Pacers 108-91 Thunder (Series tied 3-3)

Game seven: Thunder v Pacers (Monday, 23 June 01:00 BST)

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, the GBA’s Director of Communications, Mohammed Amin Lamptey, hinted that the correspondence highlighted regulatory concerns and called for swift action from both the Minister of Youth and Sports and the National Sports Authority (NSA) to tighten oversight on boxing promotions in the country.

The Battle of the Beasts event drew significant attention, showcasing headline bouts such as Jacob “The Beast” Dickson facing Andrew Tabiti for the WBO Africa Bridgerweight title, and Daniel Selassie Gorsh taking on Theo Allotey in the African Bantamweight division.

Adding to the spectacle were international boxing icons Anthony Joshua and Amir Khan, whose presence helped elevate the event’s profile on the global stage.

In light of the BBBoC’s concerns, the GBA is expected to work closely with the Sports Ministry and the NSA to address any regulatory gaps and ensure future boxing events adhere to international standards.

The surprise presentation took place yesterday (June 16, 2025) at Mr Mahama’s office following a courtesy call by a delegation including Sharaf Mahama, son of President John Dramani Mahama and CEO of Legacy Rise Sports, and British-Nigerian heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. 

The group, fresh from their participation in the Battle of the Beasts boxing event at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Friday, June 13, 2025, had earlier paid a visit to President Mahama at the Jubilee House before heading to thank Mr Mahama for his support.

Ibrahim Mahama Honours Azumah Nelson with Toyota Fortuner and an undisclosed sum of money in Surprise Gesture#GraphicOnline pic.twitter.com/IlOPbDuOkf

— DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) June 17, 2025

Describing Azumah Nelson as “arguably Africa’s greatest boxer”, Mr Mahama said the gesture was meant to celebrate not just the three-time world champion’s achievements in the ring, but also his continued contributions to sports and youth development in Ghana. Friends and dignitaries at the event looked on in admiration as Mr Mahama handed over the car keys in a moment that was both symbolic and emotional.

Azumah Nelson, visibly moved by the gesture, expressed his heartfelt gratitude. “I am grateful to you, Ibrahim Mahama, and to Sharaf Mahama for this big surprise. I didn’t expect this at all,” he said. “I am just supporting my son Sharaf who has shown great interest in promoting the sport I love.”

The gesture comes at a time when Nelson’s legacy continues to inspire younger generations, and his role in mentoring and supporting boxing initiatives has cemented his place not only in sporting history but in the hearts of Ghanaians.

Among those present were members of Anthony Joshua’s team, sports entrepreneur Yaw Sakyi Afari of RITE Sports Services, Henry Quarshie—businessman and a member of Azumah’s close team—as well as several associates from Legacy Rise Sports and friends of Ibrahim Mahama.

Ibrahim Mahama, founder of Engineers and Planners and Dzata Cement Limited, is known for his philanthropic ventures, particularly in the areas of education, sports and infrastructure development.

The Battle of the Beasts event, which attracted global attention with the presence of Anthony Joshua, was a celebration of Ghanaian boxing and a demonstration of efforts to raise the country’s profile on the international boxing stage.

The body was airlifted today, June 17, from Kotoka International Airport and is en route to Lagos, Nigeria, with a brief stopover scheduled in Lomé, Togo.

The GBA, in a statement issued by its Communications Directorate, expressed profound gratitude to Ghanaians, members of the boxing fraternity, journalists, and media houses for their unwavering support since the incident occurred.

The authority also assured the public of continued updates on the body’s arrival and funeral arrangements in Nigeria.

In preparation for the final rites in Lagos, the GBA has delegated two key representatives: Gideon Hassen Appiah, a member of the GBA Board, and Lateykwei Lartey, Head Coach of Fit Square Boxing Gym. The duo departed for Nigeria ahead of the body’s arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

The GBA President, Abraham Kotei Neequaye, disclosed that the GBA has submitted $3,000 to its representatives in Nigeria. The amount includes a $1,500 purse provided by Gordon Frimpong, CEO of Osibor Boxing Management, and an additional $1,500 donation from the GBA.

The total amount is to be handed over to the President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) as part of the GBA’s contribution to the late boxer’s family.

The Ghana Boxing Authority reiterated its commitment to maintaining close ties with its Nigerian counterparts and honouring the memory of Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju with dignity.

Joshua, a two-time world champion of Nigerian descent, paid a courtesy visit to the Jubilee House on Monday after attending the “Battle of the Beasts” boxing event at the Bukom Boxing Arena last Saturday. The event was co-produced by former British welterweight champion Amir Khan and Legacy Rise.

President Mahama expressed hope that Joshua’s involvement could inspire young boxing talents across the continent.

“I told him [Anthony Joshua] he will be our ambassador. It needs people like him to help change the lives of young people, and so we wish him to be an ambassador for boxing in Africa and take that as one of the causes that he champions. After him, there will be a wave of boxers who will also make Africa proud and change the societies from which they come,” Mahama said.

“You are an icon very much loved in Ghana,” he added.

The meeting was attended by Sports Minister Kofi Adams, Ghanaian boxing legend Azumah Nelson, and Sharaf Mahama, CEO of Legacy Rise Sports.

Anthony Joshua is expected to return to the ring later this year, with potential matchups against American heavyweight Jared Anderson or the rising British-Nigerian prospect Moses Itauma.

Speaking to Fireladytv during the ‘Battle of the Beasts’ boxing event organized by Sharaf Mahama at the Bukom Arena, the minister described the sport’s current state as needing serious attention.

“The whole professional boxing in Ghana needs a lot of re-organization,” he stressed.

“We will be working very hard as a Ministry to make sure this re-setting happens in the professional boxing arena.”

Kofi Adams also expressed concern over the decline in boxing standards and affirmed that strategic planning is necessary to bring the sport back on track.

He noted that the Ministry would collaborate with stakeholders to develop a blueprint for reviving the sport.

The Minister also assured that the government is prepared to offer the required backing to aid boxing’s development.

His comments come at a time when many in the boxing fraternity have been calling for reforms to improve infrastructure, promotions, and athlete welfare.

The Filipino says he will face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on 19 July in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao is now aiming to become boxing’s oldest welterweight world champion.

“I’m back,” Pacquiao said on social media. “Let’s make history.”

Pacquiao currently holds the record for the oldest welterweight champion, when he beat Keith Thurman in 2019 to claim the WBA (Super) world title aged 40.

The WBC controversially reinstated Pacquiao into their rankings at number five last week as speculation about his return mounted.

The WBC president Mauricio Suliman defended the decision, saying: “Pacquiao has been licensed by Nevada and passed all medicals and as legendary WBC champion has been approved to fight by our organisation.”

Pacquiao last fought in August 2021, when he lost on points to Yordenis Ugas.

The boxing legend is a four-time welterweight champion and has an overall record of 62 fights, eight losses and two draws.

Since retiring from boxing he has been involved in politics in his home country, but last week failed in his bid to become elected to the Philippines senate.

Takyi, who captured global attention with his standout performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, is now focused on the next big milestone in his career — clinching a world title.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s SportsNite show, Takyi opened up about his transition from amateur to professional boxing and the impact of his Olympic success.

“After the Olympics, things changed. I received support, equipment, and recognition. That moment really brought me into the light,” he reflected, highlighting how his Olympic win shaped his career.

Now entrenched in the professional ranks, Takyi has already identified a key target: American boxer Keyshawn Davis.

“Now, I am a professional boxer, and I’m preparing for a world title. My target is American boxer Keyshawn Davis,” he said.

However, the road hasn’t been entirely smooth. Takyi admitted that the period following the Olympics came with its share of struggles, particularly due to the lack of a solid support system.

“I didn’t have a strong team behind me after the Olympics, and that affected me. I went down a bit, but I never quit,” he revealed, emphasising his resilience and determination.

Now back on track and more determined than ever, Takyi is preparing to climb boxing’s highest ranks — a journey that embodies perseverance, ambition, and the enduring spirit of a champion.

The committee, chaired by Ambassador Major (RTD) Amarkai Amarteifio, was inaugurated on April 8, 2025, and completed its work within the stipulated 21-day ultimatum.

Receiving the report, Hon. Kofi Adams praised the committee for the dedication and commitment to carry out its mandate.

He noted that the Ministry will look into the report and its recommendations and make it public after studying to help the boxing industry and to prevent such occurrences in the future.

He further stated that the recommendations will be implemented to ensure the total reform of boxing and other sporting disciplines.

On his part, the Chairman of the Committee, Ambassador Major RTD Amarkai Amarteifio indicated that the committee had successfully finished its work and was hopeful the report will tremendously reform the sport.

He further praised his committee members for a good work done and also thanked the health workers at korle Bu Teaching Hospital and all other persons whose contribution had helped to enrich the report.

The all-British grudge match will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, more than 30 years after their fathers began their own iconic rivalry.

Speaking at Thursday’s news conference, Benn, 28, vowed to inflict “pain” on the 35-year-old Eubank Jr in their middleweight contest.

“What is pain, though?” retorted Eubank Jr, whose brother Sebastian died in 2021 aged 29. “I have a brother who is buried in the desert in Dubai – that is pain.

“I have his son, three years old, he asks: ‘Why can’t I see my daddy? Why can’t he take me to school?’ That is pain.”

It is becoming increasingly unlikely Chris Eubank Sr, who beat Nigel Benn in 1990 before a contentious draw three years later, will be at Saturday’s bout.

Eubank Sr has fallen out with his son and not been involved in any of the fight build-up.

“My own father, a man I idolised for my entire life, and he doesn’t speak to me,” added Eubank Jr.

“We haven’t spoken for years and he thinks I’m a disgrace. These things are what pain is to me.”

Eubank Jr and Benn were scheduled to fight in October 2022, before Benn failed a voluntary drugs test.

A long and intense stare down ensued at the face-off, although there was no repeat of February’s infamous news conference when Eubank Jr slapped Benn with an egg.

Hearn heckled & Benn accused of ‘fleeing’ UK

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Eddie Hearn has promoted Conor Benn for his entire professional career

Eubank Jr took his seat 15 minutes after the scheduled start time, leaving Benn and a few hundred of the boxing media waiting in a conference room overlooking the pitch at the fight night venue.

Just like he did in February, Eubank Jr heckled promoter Eddie Hearn the moment the Matchroom boss began to speak.

“I can’t wait for him to smash you to pieces on Saturday,” Hearn said, raising his voice to be heard.

Hearn swapped places with Matchroom chief executive Frank Smith, but Eubank Jr did not back down.

He then accused Benn, who based his training camp in Spain, of “fleeing” the United Kingdom.

“He knew he couldn’t handle the pressure of the UK streets and have people shouting drug cheat and egg jokes,” added Eubank Jr.

Benn, who has always maintained his innocence, had his suspension lifted in November after a two-year-battle with anti-doping authorities.

With his father sat beside him, he refused to bite back and felt “no pressure” in a bid to extend his 23-fight unbeaten record.

Nigel Benn on son’s sparring surprise

Former world-title challenger Eubank Jr has won 34 fights and lost three, but competed at a much higher level than his opponent.

Benn has operated the majority of his career two divisions below the middleweight limit.

Both fighters will weigh in on Friday and are prohibited from adding more than 10lbs by a second weigh-in on Saturday morning.

Eubank Jr remains favourite with bookmakers, but those in Benn’s inner circle say he looks in phenomenal shape.

Nigel Benn, as he has done throughout camp and in every media event, was by his son’s side and predicted the fight “won’t go past four rounds”.

He raved about his son “bullying” sparring partners as he spoke of a session in which Benn supposedly got the better of undefeated IBF world super-middleweight champion William Scull, who fights Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez on 4 May.

“He couldn’t take no more after eight rounds, he was meant to be doing 10 rounds,” added the 61-year-old former two-weight world champion.

Whether where is any truth to all the noise, or if it’s just smoke and mirrors and the usual pre-fight hype, remains to be seen.

It is a groundbreaking event that combines the excitement of boxing with a powerful celebration of freedom, equality, and the enduring fight against oppression.

Scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, the tournament will showcase thrilling matches between elite boxers from Ghana and the United States, commemorating Juneteenth.

Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It is also called Emancipation Day or Juneteenth Independence Day.

Bishop Boxing Promotion organizes the event, which aims to honor Juneteenth’s legacy while fostering unity and social progress.

In his remarks ahead of the event, founder of Bishop Boxing Promotion, Dave Bishop said, “We are thrilled to bring this unique event to Accra this year. The Juneteenth boxing tournament isn’t just about sports—it’s a celebration of freedom, equality, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. As a proud Ghanaian citizen, I’m committed to giving back to the motherland and contributing to its development.”

The philanthropic tournament will feature six high-stakes bouts across multiple weight classes, highlighting the skills of top-ranked boxers from both nations. Beyond the ring, the event will include live music, cultural performances, a 2-kilometer community run, a reception, and an after-party. Proceeds from the event will go toward renovating the Wisdom Boxing Gym, transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility for aspiring athletes.

Sanctioned by the Ghana Boxing Authority and powered by Bishop Boxing Promotion, the Juneteenth Boxing Tournament promises to be a landmark event, blending sport, culture, and philanthropy in the spirit of freedom and unity.

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The rival heavyweight champions hold all four major world titles between them, with Dubois the IBF champion and Usyk the WBA (Super), WBO and WBC belt holder.

Usyk, 38, is undefeated in 23 fights and has a win over Dubois, stopping him in August 2023.

Their rematch would be for the undisputed heavyweight title as well as offer 27-year-old Dubois the chance of revenge.

While talks are ongoing between both camps, no contracts have been signed.

Dubois has won three fights since his defeat by Usyk, securing a knockout in each of them.

If the Londoner cannot reach terms with Usyk, he will be ordered by the IBF to face 49-fight veteran Derek Chisora who the IBF has as its number one contender.

The projected date in July comes in the middle of a busy period in sport with Katie Taylor’s trilogy fight against Amanda Serrano on 11 July in New York, the final weekend of Wimbledon on 12 and 13 July and the Women’s Euro 2025 also under way.

Usyk is keen to fight for the undisputed title once more before he retires after he was forced to vacate the IBF belt before his rematch with Tyson Fury last December.

The Ukrainian, who was also undisputed champion at cruiserweight, has suggested he will retire after two more fights.

Dubois was due to defend his IBF belt against Joseph Parker in February, before illness caused him to withdraw from the contest in fight week.

Usyk’s most recent fight was his second win over Fury, when he confirmed himself as the number one heavyweight in the world.

No British fighter has held the undisputed heavyweight title in the four-belt era and the last Briton to be undisputed heavyweight champion was Lennox Lewis in 1999.

The 22-year-old pugilist is now at a crossroads, unsure whether he will lace up his gloves again.

What was supposed to be an exciting international showdown ended in heartbreak on March 29, after just two rounds of action.

Olanrewaju, aged 40, collapsed against the ropes and lost consciousness. Immediate attempts by ringside medical staff and paramedics to revive him proved futile.

He was rushed to the nearby Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital but was pronounced dead minutes later. What was meant to be a stepping stone in Jon Power’s blossoming career quickly descended into horror.

Post-mortem results have since confirmed that the Nigerian pugilist died of cardiac arrest, according to media reports in Nigeria citing the Secretary General of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBoC), Oluremi Aboderin.

However, in Ghana, officials have declined to publicly release the report until a High Court judge ratifies it.

Investigation

Nonetheless, the fallout from the incident is far from over. The Ministry of Sports and Recreation this week inaugurated a seven-member committee to probe the circumstances surrounding the fight.

Authorities in Nigeria are also demanding answers from the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), citing concerns about the conditions under which the bout was sanctioned.

Back in Accra, Jon Power is struggling. Two weeks on from the tragic fight at the Bukom Arena, the psychological weight of that night continues to torment him.

His once-promising career hangs in the balance, as he questions whether he has the mental fortitude to ever step back into the ring.

Adding to the trauma is the wave of vitriol directed at the young boxer on social media. A viral video captured Jon Power speaking to ring announcer Mohammed Amin Lamptey moments after the fight. In it, he appeared unaware of the full gravity of what had happened and expressed joy over the victory—one that has since been struck from the records.

Upon realising the seriousness of the situation, Power quickly changed tone and offered prayers for his opponent’s recovery, though it was tragically too late.

“He is very sad, down and distraught and has been struggling to cope with what has happened,” said his manager, Gordon Frimpong of Osebor Boxing Management and Promotions.

“All the people insulting Jon Power are shameless and inconsiderate. Who says he was excited? These things always happen in sports and this is not the first time [in boxing] and it certainly wasn’t Jon’s fault.”

Mr Frimpong revealed that Jon Power’s mother has been emotionally shattered by the incident and has urged her son to quit boxing altogether.

In response, the promoter and a team of veteran trainers visited the boxer’s home in a bid to console and counsel him through the trauma.

“We showed him videos of similar tragedies in boxing to let him know he’s not alone and that even the greats have walked this difficult path,” he disclosed to the Daily Graphic.

“These interventions have helped lift some of the guilt from his shoulders. He’s beginning to heal, and we believe he’ll return to the ring soon. This is his livelihood—we can’t let one tragic event end his future.”

Trauma and support

Boxing is a sport that demands immense physical and mental resilience. Jon Power’s ordeal underscores the urgent need for comprehensive support systems that address both the physical and psychological well-being of boxers and other athletes—particularly those facing traumatic experiences or navigating the challenges of early retirement.

Indeed, the sport is no stranger to such heart-wrenching stories. British legend Barry McGuigan remains haunted by the death of Young Ali, who fell into a coma and died weeks later following their 1982 fight in London.

The tragedy shaped McGuigan’s life and spurred him to successfully campaign for tighter medical protocols around boxing matches in the UK.

Chris Eubank, another British icon, still carries the burden of his brutal 1991 clash with Michael Watson. Though Eubank won the fight, Watson suffered catastrophic brain injuries and spent 40 days in a coma.

The guilt altered Eubank’s entire approach to boxing—he avoided knockouts and sought points victories in his subsequent bouts.

In a tearful reunion years later on Piers Morgan’s Life Stories, Eubank apologised to Watson, who gracefully responded: “Let’s move on… we are born warriors, we are real.”

Nigel Benn, the ‘Dark Destroyer’, lived with a heavy conscience for over a decade after his 1995 slugfest with American Gerald McClellan, who was left permanently disabled.

Benn later found peace through faith and eventually reunited with McClellan at a charity dinner in London in 2007, where emotions ran high but forgiveness prevailed.

Now, Jon Power finds himself in similar emotional territory. His story adds to the long list of boxers whose careers have been derailed by tragedy—not through fault or malice, but by the brutal realities of the sport.

For the Ghanaian boxing authorities, the incident sparked urgent calls for reform. The ongoing inquiry into Olanrewaju’s death is expected not only to determine what went wrong at the Bukom Arena but also to propose reforms to safety protocols for professional fights to safeguard the health of boxers.

The tragic events of March 29 have, sadly, become another chapter in boxing’s bloodstained history — but they may yet spark overdue reforms in the sport in Ghana.

For Jon Power, his road to recovery — both personal and professional — will be long, but the story of how he faces and overcomes this moment could ultimately define him.

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Olanrewaju, 40, passed away on March 29 after collapsing during a light heavyweight match at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, where he was facing Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu.

Despite immediate attempts by paramedics to revive him, Olanrewaju remained unresponsive and was rushed to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead about 30 minutes later.

Though Olanrewaju appeared to be in control of the fight, he collapsed during the third round without being struck by any punches. The cause of his collapse is still under investigation.

Throughout his career, Olanrewaju participated in 24 professional bouts, securing 13 wins, 8 losses, and 3 draws.

In response to this tragic incident, Sports Minister Kofi Adams has appointed a committee to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding Olanrewaju’s death.

The committee will be chaired by Major (Rtd) Amarkai Aamartefio, with the following members: Peter Zwennes, Ekow Asmah, Samuel Bartels, Eddie Pappoe, Dr. Martin Engmann, and Mrs. Juliana Addo-Yobo, who will serve as the Secretary.

The committee’s key objectives include:

1. To determine the circumstances leading to the death of the Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju (deceased) at the Bukom Boxing Arena on the 29th of March 2025.
2. To determine whether the organizers or promoters of the Boxing match took adequate steps by international standards to prevent the death of the boxer
3. To determine whether the licensing authorities in Nigeria acted with due diligence and followed procedure in allowing the boxer to accept an international match in Accra, according to his qualification and experience
4. Examine the conduct of all officials, singular and collective, and recommend sanctions where such conduct does not meet acceptable standards
5. Recommend any changes in technical and medical procedures necessary to ensure total safety in the noble art of self-defense
6. To consider any other matter relevant to the terms set down in the matter of hearing and make appropriate recommendations to enhance the image of boxing, safeguard the interests and safety of all participants.

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Gabriel passed away during a bout on Saturday night, March 29, 2025, at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

Olanrewaju, 40, was competing against Accra-born boxer John Mbanugu, popularly known as Power, in an undercard fight in Ghana’s Professional Boxing League.

Reacting to the death, the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) noted that he was medically cleared to fight.

However, Nigerian authorities have also stated the deceased was not cleared to fight.

The Secretary-General of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control, Oluremi Aboderin, claimed that the boxer had refused to fight after disagreements over financial terms.

In a statement, Mr. Adams pledged full cooperation to ensure a thorough investigation and to support all efforts aimed at ensuring the safety of athletes, pending the autopsy.

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According to a GBA statement, the Nigerian boxer received medical clearance before facing Ghanaian boxer John Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.

“Oluwasegun was declared medically fit by the Nigeria Boxing Board Control with his certification as a professional boxer before the GBA sanctioned and approved the international contest,” the statement said.

The GBA also explained how events happened on the bout day, stating that “Oluwasegun seemed to have dominated the fight from round one but unfortunately met his untimely exit from the ring in round 3 (2 minutes 46 seconds).

“Oluwasegun, a few seconds before the end of round 3, stepped back during the fight and leaned on the ropes with his back without any punch whatsoever from his opponent.

“The referee, Richard Amevi, sensing danger, waved his hand for the end of the fight and immediately invited the ringside physician, with the support of paramedics from the national ambulance service to attend to the boxer to help resuscitate him.”

The statement added that the GBA President, Abraham Kotei Neequaye, has informed the Secretary of the Nigerian Boxing Board Control about the unfortunate incident that occurred.

“The GBA President reported the incident to the Korle Bu Police Station and this morning helped to move the body to the main mortuary for preservation.

“The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr Kofi Iddie Adams, was formally informed by the GBA President of the unfortunate incident,” the statement added.

The Nigerian boxer had 24 professional fights, 13 victories, eight losses, and three draws.

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Parker, 33, retained his interim WBO title in February with a second-round knockout win against Martin Bakole.

Ukrainian Usyk is the WBC, WBA (Super) and WBO heavyweight champion thanks to his second successive victory against Tyson Fury in December.

Usyk, 38, and Parker have 30 days to find an agreement or the WBO will order purse bid proceedings.

Britain’s Daniel Dubois, who holds the IBF heavyweight belt, is already in talks to face Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight title.

Dubois was set to face Parker on 22 February but withdrew because of illness and is not looking to reschedule that fight.

New Zealand’s Parker held the WBO title between 2016 and 2018, beating Andy Ruiz Jr to claim the vacant belt before losing it to Anthony Joshua following two successful defences.

After suffering the third defeat of his career against Joe Joyce in 2022, Parker has won six in succession, including a victory against former WBC champion Deontay Wilder.

Usyk is yet to lose in 23 fights as a professional, winning 14 by knockout.

Saudi Arabia has hosted most of the big heavyweight bouts in recent years, with Usyk’s two most recent contests against Fury taking place in Riyadh.

Usyk was undisputed champion at cruiserweight before stepping up to heavyweight and achieving the same feat.

However, the Olympic gold medallist vacated his IBF title following his first win over Fury in 2024, which meant interim champion Dubois was upgraded to full champion before his victory over Joshua in September.

The former Okaikwei South MP made this appeal while congratulating Abigail Quartey on becoming Ghana’s first female boxing champion.

Abigail’s achievement was highlighted in a documentary by JoySports’ Haruna Mubarak, titled Abigail Quartey: Her Gloves, Her Glory. She attributed her success to hard work, specifically dedicating four hours to training daily.

Reacting to her accomplishment, Newman described Abigail’s victory in the male-dominated sport as inspiring and commendable.

“Quartey’s victory significantly advances women’s empowerment and gender equity in Ghana, highlighting the need for government support for women in sports,” she stated.

She further urged the government to prioritize the implementation of the Affirmative Action Act, 2024, emphasizing its potential to expand opportunities for women in sports and other fields.

The 28-year-old boxer secured her title after dominating British opponent Sangeeta Birdi with a series of punches and uppercuts, making her Ghana’s first female world titleholder and the country’s 11th boxing champion in history.

Beyond being a personal triumph, Abigail’s success serves as an inspiration to young women across Ghana. She cemented her legacy in November by winning the Women’s International Boxing Federation (WIBF) title.

During her tenure as Minister, Newman played a key role in ensuring the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill by Parliament in August 2024 to promote women’s empowerment and create opportunities across all sectors.

“The first schedule of the Affirmative Action Bill calls for a 30% representation, with a gradual increase to 50%. Implementing this bill will be a major victory for women,” she added.

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But, after his Leicester side were knocked out of the FA Cup by a controversial stoppage-time Harry Maguire header on his Old Trafford return on Friday, the Dutchman had a new way to describe such drama.

“We are not defeated in Fergie time, we are defeated in offside time,” the former Manchester United striker told ITV after his side were beaten in round four.

His frustration was that, with the scores level at 1-1 and the game in the third and final minute of injury-time and heading for 30 minutes of extra time, Maguire headed the winner, despite appearing to be offside when Bruno Fernandes sent a free-kick towards the back post.

But with no video assistant referee (VAR) at this stage of the FA Cup, it was down to the decision of the officials, who felt there was nothing wrong with the goal.

Having had a bit more time to digest the outcome when he faced the media around an hour after full-time, Van Nistelrooy was no calmer about the situation.

“We are gutted,” he said.

“When you prepare for the whole week for this game and reacting after the Everton loss and put in a performance like that but it is decided on a clear and obvious mistake, that is unacceptable and unthinkable at this level.

“We have nothing else to do but pick ourselves up. It is not what the team deserved.”

Why was VAR not in use?

Image caption: Ruud van Nistelrooy said Harry Maguire, the furthest Manchester United player from the ball at the far side of the penalty area in the above image, was “half a metre” offside

Having had time to analyse replays of the goal, VAR would most likely have overturned the on-pitch decision.

However, the Football Association announced in mid-December that the technology would not be used in the FA Cup until the fifth round.

“VAR has only been used in the FA Cup previously for matches at Wembley Stadium and at Premier League grounds because of the infrastructure, workforce and costs that are required for its operation,” the FA said in a statement on 16 December.

“This decision ensures that there is a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs taking part in the same stage of the competition.”

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admitted his side were fortunate with the decision, and feels it vindicates the use of VAR, even if his side benefited on this occassion from its absence.

“With VAR it’s not a goal,” he said.

“I think it’s important to have VAR because it’s fair for the game. It’s hard to lose like that with an offside play. But we deserve a little bit of luck.”

Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane felt the debate is not over whether VAR is needed, but that it was a clear enough error that should have been picked up by the officials.

He said on ITV: “That’s a poor decision, the linesman [assistant referee] has got to see that.

“You have got to get those big decisions right.”

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright added: “Look where the linesman is. That impacts him [Van Nistelrooy] that impacts his managerial career because it’s another loss.

“That would have been a really big confidence booster for them. But they have to lift themselves, because of the officials.”

Van Nistelrooy added: “It is a hard one to take because the game was decided on a mistake.

“It is not a matter of VAR where you look at millimetres, it was half a metre, it was clear.”

Garnacho shines and Dorgu makes debut

Despite accepting the winner was cruel on his opponents, Amorim felt his side were in need of a bit of luck.

Manchester United have struggled for consistency since the Portuguese coach was appointed in November and while he and the club’s fans will have welcomed this win, there were still some causes for concern.

They were again poor in the first half, failing to manage a single shot on target as they fell behind to Bobby De Cordova-Reid’s opener.

Amorim gave January signing Patrick Dorgu his debut but played him at right-wing back, despite the 20-year-old being more often played at left-back.

Amorim was seen giving the former Lecce player a lot of instructions, before taking him off at half-time.

“I was trying to help Dorgu to manage the game,” he said. “He’s had three training sessions so it was hard for him.

“If you see the history of Dorgu he played a lot of games on the right side. Sometimes you need a left foot on the right side to come inside and connect in a different way.”

Dorgu was replaced by Alejandro Garnacho and his introduction changed the game in United’s favour. His pace down the left caused problems and he had a deflected shot superbly cleared off the line before sending in the cross that led to Joshua Zirkzee’s equaliser.

Garnacho had been linked with a move away from Old Trafford in the winter window, but Amorim had appeared keen to keep hold of him and his impact in this game showed why.

“He made a big impact,” Maguire said.

“He always does that when he comes off the bench, so credit to him, he’s ready, he’s focused.”

Speculation on social media had suggested Joshua could fight Martin Bakole or Deontay Wilder next.

With Joshua, 35, coming off a knockout loss to IBF champion Daniel Dubois in an all-British clash, Matchroom promoter Hearn says no concrete plans are in place.

“If you look at Twitter [X], he’s signed and agreed to fight Martin Bakole. Today it’s all signed for Wilder against Joshua on June 7th. [But with] both of those fights there hasn’t been one discussion yet,” Hearn said on the 5 Live Boxing with Steve Bunce podcast.

Congolese heavyweight Bakole has talked up a fight with Joshua in recent weeks, even suggesting he hurt the two-time heavyweight world champion in a sparring session.

But Hearn, who has promoted Joshua for the entirety of his professional career, laughed off the story, saying he has never witnessed Bakole “rock” Joshua in sparring.

“I think Martin Bakole is a very good fighter, but don’t get carried away that this is the new George Foreman,” Hearn said.

“The problem with Bakole is, he is a handful, but he doesn’t really bring the dollars for the fight.”

Joshua’s return to the summit of the heavyweight scene was halted by Dubois at Wembley last September as he suffered the fourth defeat of his career and second via stoppage.

He was expected to fight Dubois again, but opted out of talks for a rematch and Dubois will face Joseph Parker on 22 February instead.

Before Tyson Fury’s shock retirement announcement last month, anticipation had been building the Gypsy King might face Joshua.

But while that fight seems unlikely again, Hearn says Fury remains at the top of Joshua’s wishlist.

“It’s always been the two – Tyson Fury – who is retired at the moment, we’ll see how long that lasts, and the winner of Dubois-Parker,” Hearn said of Joshua’s ideal next opponent.

Joshua has history with both Dubois and Parker having stripped Parker of his WBO title in their 2018 unification fight.

Hearn is not confident Dubois will retain his IBF title, with Parker on a five-fight winning streak, including wins over Wilder and Zhilei Zhang.

“The first four, five rounds of that fight will be so important,” Hearn said of Dubois-Parker.

“If Parker can get through those rounds, you’ve got to put question marks back in Dubois’ head because right now I think he thinks he’s invincible.

“He’s buying into the hype. Which might be good for him. Dubois is a handful.

“I think he’s beatable and I think Parker is the guy to do it. Right now, a confident Daniel Dubois is a dangerous man.”

Following the team’s failure to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 20 years, the GFA introduced a new technical staff.

Despite criticism over the AFCON failure, Otto Addo remains as head coach. Winfried Schäfer has been named as the GFA’s technical advisor and technical director.

Desmond Offei, the head coach of the Black Satellites, has been promoted to the Black Stars’ technical bench as an assistant coach, replacing Joseph Laumann. Offei will join Otto Addo’s assistants, John Paintsil and Fatawu Dauda, who will retain their positions.

Kris Perquy has been appointed as the team’s psychologist, and Gregory De Grauwe will serve as the video analyst.

In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Acheampong expressed confidence in the new staff and reiterated their goal of securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

He added, “We have listened to the concerns of Ghanaians, and we hope these appointments will lead to the results we need to qualify for the World Cup.”

Meanwhile, Kofi Adams, the Minister-designate for Sports and Recreation, has suggested that the new technical team might undergo a review.

The new technical team now includes 15 members in total.

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Fury has called time on his career before, in April 2022 after his win over Dillian Whyte. However, the Brit returned to action in December that year.

“I’m going to make this short and sweet, I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing,” Fury said in a video posted on Monday.

“It’s been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it and I’m going to end with this. Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side.”

🚨 Tyson Fury has just announced his retirement from boxing 😮

📹: @Tyson_Fury pic.twitter.com/AOiDJYA17V

— Boxing on TNT Sports (@boxingontnt) January 13, 2025

He also retired in 2013 and 2017 in social media posts, with both statements proving to be short-lived.

Fury was beaten for a second time by Oleksandr Usyk in December as he looked to regain his heavyweight world championship belts.

A long-touted fight with Anthony Joshua had been rumoured for this year with both fighters in the latter stages of their respective careers.

Having inflicted a first career defeat on Briton Fury by split decision in May, Usyk’s astuteness and will to win once again prevailed at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena as he retained his WBA (Super), WBC and WBO titles.

Fury, 36, found success in the first half of the fight. Some of the more eye-catching shots came from the Morecambe fighter, but the volume of punches and cleaner work were from Ukrainian Usyk.

All three judges scored it 116-112 to the 37-year-old champion.

Usyk, an Olympic gold medallist and former undisputed cruiserweight champion, extended his undefeated record to 23 pro wins.

“He [Tyson Fury] is a great fighter, he is a great opponent. An unbelievable 24 rounds for my career. Thank you so much,” Usyk said.

Two-time world champion Fury has only ever lost to Usyk, his two defeats the major blemishes on a record also consisting of 34 wins and one draw.

Fury left the ring without conducting an interview before IBF world champion Daniel Dubois climbed in and called for a rematch with Usyk.

A visibly frustrated figure in the moments after the scorecards were read out, Fury said backstage he was convinced he won the fight by “at least three rounds”.

Superstar Usyk edges a showcase of elite level boxing

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Usyk is the only boxer to have beaten Fury in the pro ranks

In a rematch billed as Usyk v Fury ‘reignited’, the sport’s two most technically gifted heavyweights served up another classic and showcased elite level boxing.

The Gypsy King was in playful mood with an unorthodox ring entrance to Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’.

Dressed as Father Christmas, Fury was still sporting the bushy beard which was cleared at a rules meeting amid protests from Usyk’s team.

A stern-faced Usyk marched to the ring in super-quick time. Wearing a warrior-like robe, he crouched in the corner to recite a prayer.

After an 11-minute face-off on Thursday, Fury and Usyk picked up where they left off, their eyes fixated on each other as met in the centre of the ring.

Neither man over-committed in a cagey opening round. Fury showboated his way through the first fight but there was more seriousness to his work here. He wobbled Usyk in the closing seconds of the second.

With an advantage of six inches in height, eight inches in reach and four stone in weight, Fury used his physicality to keep Usyk at range.

But just as he did in the first fight, Usyk found success targeting Fury’s body.

Two bruising left hooks landed flush on Fury in the fourth. “Keep it basic. He’s running around – slow it down,” trainer SugarHill Steward told Fury after the fifth.

An overhand left connected cleanly with Fury’s forehead in the sixth. Fury’s pace dropped and Usyk was heading into his groove.

Fury found a second wind, however, and edged the ninth. It felt as if it was still all to play for in the championship rounds.

Model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and actor husband Jason Statham watched from plush ringside seats, alongside a stellar list of boxing royalty including Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis and Prince Naseem Hamed.

Usyk unleashed a sublime combination in the 11th. With Fury momentarily hurt, the champion applied the pressure.

And Fury looked the more desperate of the pair as Usyk finished the fight on top.

Best of era Usyk running out of opponents

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Fury now faces an uncertain future after his first – successive – defeats

Two close defeats by a fighter of Usyk’s calibre do not point to a sharp decline in Fury’s ability. On another day, with another set of judges, it may have been a different result.

“I’m really disappointed. We’ll have to see what happens in the future for Tyson. I thought he was in control, boxed really well and had Usyk on his back foot,” promoter Frank Warren said.

Fury is an enigma: a boxer who – even when he refuses to engage with the media or sell a fight as he did this week – is able to emit a certain energy and draw in a crowd.

Anthony Joshua is also at a crossroads after a destructive defeat by Dubois. Now may be the perfect time for the long-awaited all-British heavyweight tussle.

Usyk, meanwhile, can rightly call the shots on his next move.

Dubois, who was stopped by Usyk last year, still harbours a grudge after the referee’s decision to rule a punch which dropped the Ukrainian earlier in the fight as a low blow.

Usyk has also previously hinted he could move back down cruiserweight. The discipline it would take to lose the weight and recondition himself is indicative of a man forever chasing greatness and new challenges.

The Crimea-born fighter certainly has options, but the best of his era is running out of credible opponents.

Briton Fury, 36, will challenge for Usyk’s unified heavyweight title in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.

Speaking as he left the news conference, Usyk said: “Me? [Look away?] No.”

Neither man had anything of note to say in Thursday’s news conference, both insisting the talking was done.

The obligatory face-off, however, provided the most talked about moment of fight week and demonstrated the mind battle between arguably the two best heavyweights on the planet.

Fury towered over Usyk and both refused to look away inside a luxury mall in the centre of the Saudi capital.

A few minutes in, organisers began hatching a plan to separate the pair. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman was the first to try and convince them, but neither fighter broke their stare.

A piece of card and a handkerchief was then placed between them.

Sweat dripped down Fury’s head as the fighters began to share words and become more animated.

“The rabbit’s getting it this time. Butchered. Smashed to pieces,” Fury told Usyk.

“Don’t be afraid,” Usyk responded.

A shouting Fury was eventually dragged away. A few moments later, he was dancing with drummers performing outside of the news conference room.

In May, 37-year-old Usyk outpointed Fury to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years.

‘This time I am serious’ – Fury

Before the face-off shenanigans, an edgy and intense Fury said it was no longer time for joking and that he will “do some serious damage” to his rival.

Sporting a bushy beard which he says provides added strength, Fury has been reluctant to engage with the media in fight week.

“I’ve got nothing to say, apart from there is going to be a lot of hurt and pain in this fight, you watch,” he said, with a few expletives added in.

“That’s all I got to say. Talking’s been done. The first fight I talked, I joked – all my career – this time I am serious.”

Smartly dressed in a white suit and black hat, Fury added: “I’m going to dish out a whole lot of pain.”

Paris Fury, the former champion’s wife, sat on the front row alongside two of his sons.

Earlier this week, Fury revealed he had not spoken to his wife for three months while focused on training in Malta.

As for Usyk, the Crimea-born champion – wearing a striking maroon outfit with embroidery – was serenaded to the top table by a Ukrainian singer and a choir consisting of a dozen suited men.

“Now we have just a performance with lights and cameras. Everything will take place on Saturday,” Usyk said.

Usyk stared down Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn when he tipped his fellow Briton for the win, a prediction which prompted a rare smile from Fury.

Asked if he had a final message for Fury, Usyk said: “Don’t be afraid. I will not leave you alone.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: The face-off had been silent until around the 10 minute mark, when there were attempts to stop it

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Several appeals to each fighter fell on deaf ears, Usyk didn’t appear to blink once

Image source: Reuters

Image caption: Fury began speaking to his opponent, and security eventually had to coax him off stage

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Usyk might think he won the small battle of the face-off

Dubbed the Zongo Fair, it was a maiden two-day event that took place on Saturday, November 23rd, and Sunday, November 24th, at Accra New Town.

Saturday’s Event

The event kicked off with a launch, during which various chiefs from the Zongo community preached peace before, during, and after the elections. The ceremony also included an awards presentation, where key members of the Zongo community received citations for their outstanding contributions.

The evening was capped off with an exciting boxing match/show.

Sunday’s Event

Sunday’s activities began with a vibrant street art exhibition that showcased the community’s creative talent. The event culminated in an entertaining concert featuring performances by Wendy Shay and Ras Kuuku.

The Zongo Fair was a resounding success, promoting unity and peace within the community. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of togetherness, particularly during significant events like the upcoming general election.

Below are some photos 

Tyson, as you might expect from a man aged 58 and having not competed professionally in 19 years, was a shadow of his old self.

Paul, 27, is a boxing novice but was too young and too athletic. He kept Tyson at range, landing jabs and accurate punches in an eight-round contest of two-minute rounds.

Tyson was slow and sluggish. He received a hero’s reception before the fight, but there were huge boos as the fight drew to a close.

Some fans left before judges’ scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73 were announced.

In an uncomfortable moment post-fight, Tyson, after his seventh pro loss in 57 bouts, called out Paul’s brother Logan and suggested he could fight again.

There were question marks on the legitimacy of this fight and how seriously both men would take it, but Tyson said he “came to fight”.

Both men wore heavier gloves with extra padding as part of the conditions set by the Texas commission, who sanctioned it as a pro fight – a decision which looks even more ludicrous post-fight.

Lighter gloves would have made no difference, no punches thrown even came close to a knockout.

Tyson landed only 18 punches in the entire fight, compared to Paul’s 78.

Paul made his celebrity name by posting prank videos online and amassing a social media following of 70 million before venturing into boxing.

He wins his 11th pro fight, having lost to Tommy Fury last year, and once again reiterated his desire to fight Mexican superstar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez.

“He knows he wants a payday so he knows where the money is at,” Paul said.

He died in the United Kingdom at the age of 84, although the details surrounding his death have not been disclosed.

Ike Quartey had an impressive professional boxing career and fought 42 matches. His record boasts 37 victories, 4 defeats, and 1 draw, with a remarkable 31 of those wins coming by way of knockout.

Ike Quartey fought in the WBA welterweight, light-welterweight, and light-middleweight divisions.

He reached the pinnacle of his career by holding the WBA welterweight title for four consecutive years, from 1994 to 1998, and was renowned for his powerful jabs.

One of the standout moments in his career was his 1999 bout against celebrated American boxer Oscar De La Hoya at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

In addition to his professional achievements, Quartey also earned a silver medal in the men’s Light Welterweight (63.5 kg) category at the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow, Russia.

He made these remarks after receiving an entourage from Holy Dorgbetor’s camp, led by co-manager Kofie Solomon, last Friday at his residence in Akropong, Eastern Region.

Mr. Kofie pointed out that the courtesy call was to express gratitude for the Omanhene’s unwavering support and to present Holy with his newly crowned IBF Inter-Continental Africa Featherweight title while seeking blessings for the entire team.

He added that Holy is ready for a world title challenge, with preparations underway to move him to the United States for further development to excel on bigger stages and defend his title.

Oseadeeyo Akuffo, in receiving the team, urged the boxer to overcome any challenging moments they may encounter. He also applauded him for his tireless efforts and the successes he has achieved.

“As a boxer, there is a need to stay disciplined and work hard in your career; give your best in the ring. Hard work and perseverance should be your hallmarks,” he insisted.

Holy’s team assistant coach, Ibrahim Wumpuni, lauded the qualities of Holy, describing him as the most disciplined boxer he has worked with.

Also present at the solemn event were Isaac Adu Amankwaah (GM of ACE Power Promotions) and Samuel Martei Laryea, who won the UBO bantamweight title after defeating Lukman Akinolugbade from Nigeria at the Odwira Festival Boxing Night.

ACE Power Promotions will stage the “Street 2 Champions” fight night on November 16 at the Center Point Mall, Atomic Junction in Accra.

The event will see Holy Dorgbetor slug it out with Kasimu Hamad Haji from Tanzania, while Mohammed Aryeetey will battle Samuel Wilson. Additionally, 2020 Olympic Games Bronze Medalist Samuel Takyi will face a yet-to-be-announced opponent from Nigeria.

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The visit was to present his title to the team as the sponsor of his much-anticipated title defense slated for 16th November.

Holy and his team were welcomed by the Chief Executive Officer of Centre Point Mall, Mr Bhagwan Asnani, the Head of Operations, Kumar Asnani, and the Marketing Manager, Derrick Afriyie.

“We’re excited to receive Holy and we’re working feverishly to make the event one of the best. We want to help our community and invest in young people to achieve their goals through boxing”, Mr Bhagwan said.

According to the General Manager of ACE Power Promotions, Mr Isaac Adu Amankwaah, who is spearheading the ‘Street 2 Champions’ fight night expressed excitement about the forthcoming event scheduled for Saturday, November 16 at the Center Point Mall.

“We’re rather very much excited about the amateur bouts on the show. Because that will help us to unearth the next Azumah Nelson or the next Holy Dorgbetor and we urge fans to come in their numbers even if you are not a boxing fan”, he added.

Holy Dorgbetor will defend his title with Kasimu Hamad Haji from Tanzania in a 12-round featherweight bout. Other boxers on the bill are All-African Games Gold Medalist Mohammed Aryeetey and 2020 Olympic Games Bronze Medalist, Samuel Takyi.

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• ACE Power Promotions signs pact with Centre Point Mall to promote Boxing

Dubbed the “Street 2 Champions fight night”, the event will feature Ghana boxing future world title prospects Holy ‘jawbreaker’ Dogbetor, Samuel Takyi and Mohammed Aryettey who will face their yet-to-be-announced opponents.

Speaking to the Times Sports, the General Manager of APP, Isaac Amankwaah, said the event would feature some finest amateur boxers in Ghana to entertain boxing fans.

“Boxing has become a means to an end for a lot of young people on the coastal areas. We want to help young people to have a purpose by using boxing as a catalyst.

“That is why we have created street to champions to pick these young people from the street and give them a sense of purpose and in so doing take them away from social vices”.

He added that apart from this bout, the current IBF intercontinental African featherweight champion Holy Dorgbetor, Olympics Bronze Medalist, Samuel Takyi, and All Africa Games Gold Medalist Mohammed Aryettey will thrill fans with their amazing boxing skills.

• ACE Power Promotions signs pact with Centre Point Mall to promote Boxing

• Boxing: Ghana’s undefeated sensation Fosu Thompson sets sights on West Africa glory

The deal, which was signed by Isaac Amankwah, General Manager of APP, and Bhagwan Asnani, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Centre Point, will enable ACE Power Promotions to host boxing bouts at the mall.

During the brief ceremony, Mr Amankwah expressed his excitement about the agreement and promised to leverage the opportunity to develop and promote more boxers.

He also noted that there will be a minimum of three boxing events annually, as they are keen on promoting young fighters to compete globally and secure international promotions and managerial contracts.

Mr. Bhagwan Asnani, developer of Centre Point Mall, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to empowering young talent and providing a sense of purpose.

“Inspired by ACE Power Promotions’ innovative use of boxing to engage and uplift individuals from the streets, Centre Point Mall, as a company dedicated to community involvement, decided to partner with them to discover and nurture hidden potential and offer opportunities for the youth,” he said.

ACE Power Promotions will stage its first series of events, which is dubbed ‘Street to Champions Fight Night’ in November.

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• I never left MMA, I haven’t left boxing – Ngannou

Dubois, 27, stopped former two-time heavyweight champion Joshua in just five rounds in front of 96,000 people at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

It leaves Joshua’s resurgent career in ruins while confirming Dubois as the new leading man in British heavyweight boxing.

An epic fight that was as shocking as it was exciting threw up countless picture-worthy moments – here are some of the best.

Dubois shots rattled AJ to his core

Image source: Matchroom

Joshua suffers the first knockdown

Image source: Getty Images

The punishment keeps coming for Joshua

Image source: Getty Images

Joshua fights back but a massive counter lands

Image source: Reuters

Joshua suffers a big knockdown

Image source: Getty Images

Referee ushers Dubois away before stopping fight

Image source: Getty Images

Dubois celebrates his crowning moment

Image source: Reuters

Dubois celebrates among the crowd

Image source: Reuters

Joshua devastated, Dubois with IBF belt

Image source: Getty Images

Dubois celebrates with team

Joshua was on the back foot from the outset and never recovered as Dubois sealed victory in five rounds.

Despite seeing his four-fight win streak halted unceremoniously, Joshua rejected the suggestion that he could hang up his gloves.

“Of course I still want to continue fighting,” Joshua said at the post-fight news conference.

“We took a shot at success and came up short. Are we going to run away now or live to fight another day? I’m a warrior.”

Joshua was attempting to join legends Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, Evander Holyfield and Vitali Klitschko in becoming a three-time world heavyweight champion.

Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn, who promotes Joshua, told the 34-year-old not to attend the news conference, but his fighter was adamant that he wanted to deliver a statement to the media.

Joshua, sporting bruises under both eyes and on his neck, did not take questions but gave a statement.

“Always walk with your head up high,” he added.

“We rolled the dice. That’s 13 world title fights, not all of them have been successful but they’ve all been fun and entertaining.

“We want to create history for British boxing and I think we are doing that.”

Almost 500,000 fans have watched Joshua headline in six British stadium fights. His contribution to the growth of British boxing is incontestable.

It was Joshua’s first world title fight since losing his rematch against Oleksandr Usyk for the WBA (Super), IBF and WBO belts in August 2022.

Usyk ‘expected Joshua to win’

WBA, WBC and WBO heavyweight champion Usyk was ringside at Wembley, taking a brief break from his training camp as he prepares for a rematch with Tyson Fury on 21 December.

The Ukrainian, who enjoyed back-to-back successes against Joshua in 2021 and 2022, has become the face of the heavyweight division during a period when the Briton’s grip has slipped away.

“For me it’s a surprise,” Usyk told Sky Sports.

“I expected Anthony to win the fight.”

Usyk is yet to taste defeat in 22 fights as a professional and was undisputed champion at cruiserweight before stepping up to heavyweight and also achieving that feat.

Who could Joshua fight next?

It is a difficult question to answer, fresh from a major defeat, but Joshua seems determined to continue fighting and he will not be lacking options.

Hearn says there is an option to trigger a rematch with Dubois, making him the current frontrunner for Joshua.

But there is also the possibility of fights with Deontay Wilder and Fury.

Wilder’s trainer Malik Scott said recently his heavyweight intended to continue his career despite back-to-back defeats.

A comeback against Wilder may be an attractive option for Joshua, considering he too will be looking for a big win.

Organisers said in the build-up to the Dubois fight that the Fury bout would be available to Joshua even if he loses.

Hearn suggested 2025 was the last year Fury-Joshua could happen, but it remains to be seen if either man has the appetite for it.

The 27-year-old dropped Joshua multiple times to retain the IBF heavyweight title and left his domestic rival’s career in ruins.

Londoner Dubois stopped Joshua, 34, with a incredible counter right hook to secure the biggest win of his 24-fight career.

“Are you not entertained?” Dubois said post-fight to huge cheers at Wembley.

“I’m a gladiator. I am a warrior to the bitter end. I want to get to the top level of this sport and reach my potential.”

Joshua’s bid to become a three-time champion and return to the division’s top table ended in the most dramatic and unexpected fashion.

AJ – who won his first world title more than eight years ago – suffered a fourth loss in his 32nd bout.

The 2012 Olympic gold medallist worked himself back into mandatory challenger status, but the dominant nature of Dubois’ win left a huge question mark on Joshua’s next move.

An ecstatic Dubois, meanwhile, enjoyed the crowning moment which had eluded him after he was elevated to world champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt.

Destructive Dubois starts and ends with a bang

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Daniel Dubois win his first world title fight as a pro

Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher had already hyped up a lively crowd with a musical interlude before the main event – and Dubois proved a Rock ‘N’ Roll Star.

Despite being champion and going against tradition, he walked first to the ring to jeers as fireworks shot up above the iconic Wembley arches.

A sea of camera phones further illuminated the national stadium when fan-favourite Joshua – his eyes firmly focused on the ring – entered to a medley which started with the Godfather theme and ended with ‘War’ from Rocky IV.

Only four of their 49 combined wins had gone the distance and the expected early knockdown came in the first round from underdog Dubois when he connected with a superb overhand right in the closing seconds.

Joshua slumped to the canvas and had still not recovered in the second. Dubois did not take a backward step, stalking his opponent around the ring and finding success with his rod-like jab.

Perhaps Joshua was still haunted by those sparring stories from several years ago when Dubois reportedly rocked him.

The 2012 Olympic gold medallist was reeling in the third as a pumped-up Dubois whipped in a left hook and Joshua appeared to touch the floor with his glove. It was not counted as a knockdown, but Dubois continued the assault until Joshua was floored again.

He was dropped twice in the third – the second ruled a slip but the writing was clearly on the wall. Unified champion Usyk and Tyson Fury, who contest a rematch in December, watched on from ringside, scarcely believing how the fight had unfolded.

The chants of “AJ, AJ” had quietened.

After a closer fourth round, Joshua, for the first time in the fight, landed a clean punch in the fifth, only for it to spur Dubois into action.

A counter right-hand, a punch that will live forever in the memory of Dubois and all those in attendance, sent Joshua down for the final time.

The former poster boy of British boxing was left scrambling across the floor, desperately trying to get up, but unable to beat the count.

The Joshua vs Dubois will take place this Saturday, September 21, at Wembley Stadium.

At Monday’s face off Joshua, scowling in the sunshine, marched straight up to Dubois and, unblinking, glared down at his young rival.

Both have well-deserved reputations as fearsome punchers. But Dubois is looking for something more in this fight. He doesn’t just want to win by knockout. He wants to inflict something on his opponent which, for a boxer, is worse than that. He wants to make Joshua quit.

“I’ve got to make him quit, break him down, That’s my mindset going into this. Making him quit, breaking him,” Dubois told Sky Sports. I believe I can.”

Quitting was an allegation thrown at Dubois after his defeat to Joe Joyce. It’s a criticism of his character that he has been fighting to dispel ever since.

For him the sweetest victory of all would be to enforce an ending of that nature in the highest-profile event of his boxing life. For Dubois that would be a kind of cruel redemption.

“I’m turning it round now at this stage of my career. I’ve come through my ups and downs, just turning it round,” Dubois said.

“Enjoy the moment, let all the talking be done, let all the statements be made. I’m in a good place right now and I’m ready to fight.”

Joshua and Dubois had to be separated earlier in the promotion when an altercation threatened to take place at a joint interview.

The animosity still seemed to simmer between them at the staredown. “I looked into his eyes, and I don’t know, I’m so used to it now. It’s part of the game,” Dubois said.

He’s adamant that Joshua’s team are underestimating him. “Of course they are, he’s going to be in for the shock of his life,” Dubois said.

“Seize the moment. It will all become real. Enough of the thinking, enough of the talking.”

But he is happy enough to be perceived as the underdog. “I still have that mindset, I’m still like that. Everyone wants to see the underdog come through and come out on top,” he said.

“I’m the underdog and I love playing that role, make it another night to remember.”

Thompson, with an impressive record of nine fights, eight wins, and one draw, is confident of securing the coveted West African belt for Ghana.

His opponent, Salawu, brings a record of six fights, with four wins, one loss, and a draw.

Ahead of the bout, Thompson has called on the media and the public to support him with prayers and encouragement.

“I’m not just fighting for myself, but for my country and the people of Ghana,” he said. “I’m determined to make them proud and bring the title home,” he declared.

He also expressed deep gratitude to his management team, led by Madam Noami Yeboah, and his coaching team, headed by Charles Quartey.

“I couldn’t have made it this far without their tireless efforts and guidance,” he acknowledged.

The highly anticipated fight is set to take place on Sunday, September 15, 2024.

The heavyweight fights Renan Ferreira on 19 October in his first MMA fight since January 2022, having had two boxing fights since then.

Ngannou, 37, lost to former world champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua but says he is not calling his return to MMA a “comeback”.

“I never left MMA. Also, I haven’t left boxing,” Ngannou told BBC Sport.

“I’m not returning to MMA, I never left MMA. That’s the confusion.”

Ngannou has just three losses in 20 MMA fights and 12 knockouts in those victories.

Ferreira, 34, has 11 knockouts in his 13 wins.

Ngannou is a former UFC champion but left the organisation in part to purse boxing alongside his MMA career.

The Cameroonian announced his move to rival MMA promotion the PFL in May 2023 but then competed in successive boxing fights.

Despite losing a controversial split decision to Fury and then suffering a heavy knockout defeat by Joshua, Ngannou does not see his switch to boxing as a “negative” experience.

“The fact that those fights even happened, it was something exceptional,” he said.

“I had that dream for over 20 years and I finally put it into fruition. That was dream chasing, a life-long dream I completed.”

The Algerian boxer won gold in Paris, despite being disqualified from last year’s World Championships by the International Boxing Association (IBA), after she was reported to have failed gender eligibility tests in 2023.

However, the International Olympic Committee strongly defended Khelif’s right to compete and ruled her to be eligible.

Her lawyer Nabil Boudi told Variety on Tuesday that Musk and Rowling would be named in the lawsuit, following comments they made on social media.

Khelif’s participation was widely discussed online, after Italian boxer Angela Carini abandoned her Olympic bout against her after 46 seconds.

Paris public prosecutor’s office told news agency AFP on Wednesday that they had launched a cyberbullying probe, following a complaint by Khelif.

However, a prominent French legal blogger wrote on X that it is unlikely Mr Musk or Ms Rowling would face prosecution, as French penal law doesn’t apply to acts committed outside of France against foreign nationals.

But prosecutors could press charges against those who sent messages on French soil.

Khelif, along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting, was cleared to compete in the women’s boxing in Paris, having been disqualified from last year’s Women’s World Championships for failing to meet eligibility criteria.

But the IOC took a different view, strongly defending the two boxers.

“This is a question of justice: women must be allowed to take part in women’s competitions. And the two are women,” IOC president Thomas Bach said.

X CEO Mr Musk and Harry Potter author Ms Rowling both posted comments about the boxer, with Ms Rowling saying Khelif was “enjoying the distress of a woman he’s just punched in the head” following the fight with Carini.

Mr Musk shared a post from swimmer Riley Gaines which said “men don’t belong in women’s sports”.

BBC News has contacted representatives for Mr Musk and Ms Rowling for comment.

Following her win, Khelif said “attacks” over her gender eligibility gave her victory against Chinese world champion Yang Liu a “special taste” after she won Olympic women’s boxing gold, a year after being disqualified from the World Championships.

“I am fully qualified to take part in this competition,” said 25-year-old Khelif. “I am a woman like any other woman.

“I was born a woman. I have lived as a woman. I competed as a woman – there is no doubt about that.”

A day after abandoning her own fight with Khelif, Carini said she “wanted to apologise” to her opponent for how she handled the moments afterwards, when she declined to shake hands with Khelif.

Yang had also been due to face Khelif in the final of last year’s World Championship – a title Yang went on to win – but Khelif was disqualified by the International Boxing Association (IBA) before they met.

The IBA said Khelif and Lin “failed to meet the eligibility criteria for participating in the women’s competition, as set and laid out in the IBA regulations”.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed them to compete, raised doubts about the tests and strongly criticised the IBA.

A chaotic news conference held subsequently by the IBA did little to clear the confusion around Khelif and Lin’s bans.

Chief executive Chris Roberts said the pair had “chromosome tests”, while president Umar Kremlev appeared to suggest the tests determined the fighters’ testosterone levels.

The BBC has been unable to determine what the eligibility tests consisted of.

The Russian-led IBA was stripped of its status as amateur boxing’s governing body by the IOC in 2019 because of fears over its governance and regulation.

Mahama made this commitment known during a Town Hall Meeting with Ghanaian youth at the Trust Sports Emporium, also known as the Bukom Boxing Arena, in honour of International Youth Day on Monday.

Ghana recently failed to qualify a boxer for the Paris Olympic Games, marking the first time in over 20 years that the country has not been represented in boxing at the Olympics.

Mahama emphasized that the Bukom Boxing Arena would serve as a hub for discovering and nurturing boxing talent from across the nation.

“This arena is not just this over; it is a complex. There’s a gym, a hostel, a restaurant, and a school. So even when the young people are training as boxers, they can attend classes and not miss school.

He further added that the original plan was for the Ghana Boxing Association to scout for young talents across various regions using mobile boxing rings.

“The intention was that the Ghana Boxing Association would go around the regions with mobile boxing rings to identify young talents. When they found these young talents, they would pick them and bring them to the centre of excellence. That was the purpose. Unfortunately, it hasn’t realized its full potential.

“Nonetheless, it is something we still have in mind because we have talent all over the country,” he added.

According to him, the Trust Sports Emporium, popularly known as the Bukom Boxing Arena will be a place to nurture and develop boxing talents.

“This arena is not just this over; it is a complex. There’s a gym, a hostel, a restaurant, and a school. So even when the young people are training as boxers, they can attend classes and not miss school,” he said.

The former President made the pledge on Monday during a Town Hall Meeting at the Bukom Arena with young Ghanaians to commemorate the 2024 International Youth Day.

“The intention was that the Ghana Boxing Association would go around the regions with mobile boxing rings to identify young talents.

“When they found these young talents, they would pick them and bring them to the center of excellence. That was the purpose. Unfortunately, it hasn’t realized its full potential. Nonetheless, it is something we still have in mind because we have talent all over the country,” he promised.

Source: Adomonline.com

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Agbeko, who has observed these issues firsthand, criticized the practice of building boxers by giving them easy fights to artificially inflate their records.

He indicated that, this approach does more harm than good, as it fails to adequately prepare boxers for tougher, more competitive bouts in the future.

According to Agbeko, the focus should be on developing boxers through challenging fights that truly test their skills and readiness.

Agbeko recounted a recent experience at a boxing event in Kwahu, where he witnessed two matches that were clearly fixed.

He was particularly embarrassed because he had brought a friend from the United States, who is well-versed in the sport, to the event.

In one of the matches, which featured two well-known boxers, Agbeko was looking forward to a competitive bout.

However, to his disappointment, one of the fighters pretended to be knocked down in a manner that was clearly staged.

This incident, he said, pointed the extent of the problem in Ghanaian boxing.

Agbeko warned that, such practices are detrimental to the sport and urged stakeholders to put an end to match-fixing and focus on building boxers the right way.

Despite his achievements and contributions to the sport, Agbeko reveals that he never truly felt embraced by the Bukom boxing fraternity.

Agbeko shared that while he felt the love and support of Ghanaians at large, his own soil never fully saw him as one of their own.

He attributes this partly to his Ewe heritage, as Bukom is predominantly a Ga community.

Although he lived and grew up in Gbese, a neighbourhood within Bukom, he never received the same recognition or warmth from the locals as other boxers did.

Another possible reason, Agbeko speculated, could be his reluctance to engage in the cultural practice of “spraying” money.

Unlike some boxers who frequently return to their roots to distribute money as a show of success and gratitude, Agbeko said he rather wanted his works to be appreciated than his show of generosity.

Watch video below:

Maybe it’s because I’m a ewe or because I don’t go spray money there but the bukom community never really accepted me as a boxer – JOSEPH AGBEKO. #GameTv#RingSide pic.twitter.com/MWOFJbIfUy

— Game TV Ghana (@GameTV_gh) August 10, 2024