The close bond shared between the late President Jerry John Rawlings and boxing legend Azumah Nelson is a tale of mutual respect and admiration, with Nelson acknowledging Rawlings’ pivotal influence on his life journey.

From the anecdotes of humble beginnings to Rawlings’ guidance steering Nelson towards boxing instead of his military aspirations, their relationship is one to be admired.

Yet, amidst their discussions spanning various life topics, there’s one notable absence: religion.

Azumah Nelson reveals that while they conversed on nearly every aspect of life, religion and matters of faith never found a place in their dialogue. However, this omission wasn’t due to a lack of interest or belief but rather stemmed from Nelson’s profound respect for Rawlings’ perceived superior knowledge in religious matters.

In an interview with Dan Kwaku Yeboah, Nelson elucidates that he refrained from discussing Christianity with Rawlings, deeming him more knowledgeable in such matters. Instead, he reserves such discussions for his peers, advocating for a commitment to God and admonishing against vice.

Moreover, Nelson delves into the spiritual dimension of sports, particularly boxing, sharing personal anecdotes that underscore his belief in the intertwining of spirituality and athletic performance. Recounting instances of divine intervention before fights, Nelson emphasizes the role of prayer and faith in overcoming physical and mental challenges in the ring.

As Africa’s esteemed boxing icon, Azumah Nelson’s reflections shed light on the multifaceted nature of his relationship with Rawlings and offer insights into the spiritual dynamics at play in the realm of sports, where divine assistance often complements physical prowess.