Ghanaian boxer Samuel Martei Laryea became the new Universal Boxing Organisation (UBO) Africa super bantamweight champion last Saturday night after a decisive victory over Nigeria’s Lukman Akinolugbade. The bout, held at Akropong Akuapem in the Eastern Region of Ghana, saw Laryea stop his opponent in the fifth round to claim the title during the 2024 Odwira Fight Night, dubbed ‘The Eastern Brawl.’

Laryea, who had previously suffered his only career defeat against a foreign opponent, was determined not to repeat history. Despite Akinolugbade’s early efforts, Laryea dominated the fight from the start, unleashing a series of powerful body shots, hooks, and uppercuts. Akinolugbade, unable to withstand the pressure, retired on his stool before the fifth round could begin, much to the surprise of the enthusiastic crowd.

“I felt no pressure at all. My opponent showed his strengths early, but I credit my corner for guiding me to attack the body. I wasn’t surprised when he gave up—I knew those shots were deadly,” Laryea said after the fight.

The event, sponsored by Oseadeeyo Kwesi Akuffo III, the Omanhene of the Okuapeman Traditional Council, also featured a string of impressive performances from local fighters. Cann Kotey Neequaye, also known as Money Ray, maintained his unbeaten record, while Prince Oko Nartey and Seth Gyimah, alias Freezy Macbones, secured victories in their respective bouts.