Boxing promoter urges swift elections to revive professional boxing in Ghana

Prominent Ghanaian boxing promoter and manager Samuel Anim Addo has called for an immediate roadmap to elections, warning that delays risk further stagnation in professional boxing.

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Graphic and Graphic Sports, Mr Anim Addo — who manages newly crowned IBF Continental Africa Featherweight champion John Laryea — highlighted that the three-month mandate of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) expired on December 29, 2025.

“The IMC’s term began on September 29, 2025, and ended on December 29. We submitted a formal letter to professional boxing stakeholders requesting a clear roadmap to elections, but we have received no response,” he said.

Mr Anim Addo stressed the need for elected leadership to restore proper governance, enable boxers to earn sustainable livelihoods, and halt the sport’s decline.

“We are appealing to the Minister of Youth and Sports to intervene and ensure the right steps are taken. The Minister has always shown willingness to listen to all sides, and I am confident he will help resolve this,” he added.

He also called for strict compliance with the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) constitution, noting that many young Ghanaians rely on boxing for their income and that structured administration would benefit both athletes and the nation.

Professional boxing in Ghana has been suspended since the tragic death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey in September 2025. Following the incident — the second ring fatality in six months — the National Sports Authority (NSA), in consultation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, halted all boxing events nationwide.

A nine-member IMC, chaired by Samir Captan and including boxing legend Azumah Nelson as vice chairman and special technical advisor, was subsequently established with a mandate to develop comprehensive safety and health protocols.

With the committee’s term now expired and no elections scheduled, stakeholders led by Mr Anim Addo are intensifying pressure for permanent leadership to be installed and professional boxing activities resumed.