Ghana’s rising boxing star, John Abaja Laryea, also known as the “Expensive Boxer,” is set to make his U.S. debut against Nicaragua’s Alexander Meija this Friday in Orlando, Florida. The two-time WBO Africa featherweight champion left Accra last week alongside his coach, Lawrence Carl Lokko, determined to put on a stellar performance and elevate his status on the global stage. With the support of his manager, Sammy Anim Addo, and a dedicated fanbase, Laryea is confident he’ll secure a decisive victory.

Speaking to Graphic Sports prior to his trip, the 22-year-old featherweight boxer was unwavering in his confidence. “There’s no pressure. I’ll handle my business quickly and return,” Laryea stated, promising a fast and emphatic end to the match.

With a professional record of 13 wins, including 11 knockouts, and just one split draw, Laryea has consistently proven his talent since his debut in October 2018. His impressive career saw him clinch the Ghana featherweight title in March 2021 with a third-round stoppage of Kamarudeen Boyefio. He soon went on to capture the WBO Africa title, overcoming Namibia’s Sebastianus Natanael in a fourth-round stoppage after a ringside doctor intervened.

Though he briefly lost his continental belt due to a period of inactivity, Laryea reclaimed it by stopping Solomon Martey in April last year. Following successive defenses against Gabriel Odoi Laryea and Isaac Duwuona, Laryea now sees this U.S. debut as his opportunity to launch his American career.

“There’s no challenge too big, not even the weather. I’m ready to show the world what I’m made of,” he said, thanking his fans for their unwavering support. Promising to make Ghana proud, Laryea assured, “I’ll give them everything they expect in the ring. Watch out; this won’t last long.”