Tokyo 2020 Olympic bronze medalist Samuel “Ring Warrior” Takyi and several other top professional boxers showcased their fighting spirit at the recent face-off for the “Street 2 Champions” boxing tournament. Held on Tuesday at Accra’s Centre Point Mall, the event was the official launch of this unique program designed to support youth empowerment through boxing.

The tournament, set for November 16, will see more than 100 amateur fighters competing across three divisions, beginning with a round of 16 knockout format. Presented by ACE Power Promotions, the competition gives young athletes a chance to prove themselves, with winners moving up the ranks and vying for the ultimate prize of a managerial or promotional deal with international partners.

In addition to the amateur bouts, the event will feature exciting professional fights. Holy “Jaw Breaker” Dorgbertor will defend his IBF Continental Africa featherweight title against Benin’s Aliou Clement Loko. Samuel “Ring Warrior” Takyi, Mohammed “Golden Star” Aryeetey, the recent gold medalist from Accra 2023, and Ghana’s super lightweight champion, Samuel “No Chance” Quaye, will also be in action.

At Tuesday’s launch, Takyi faced off with his opponent Emmanuel Quartey for their scheduled 8-round lightweight clash, while Quaye and Michael “One Bullet” Ansah, who previously fought for the national title, exchanged heated words in the afternoon sun.

The launch event was attended by dignitaries including Bhagwan Asnani, CEO of Centre Point Mall, Cake City Ghana’s CEO Madam Theresa Naa Ayorkor Sowah, ACE Power Promotions’ Kizito Akudago, Centre Point Mall’s Marketing Manager Derrick Afriyie, and Head of Operations Kumar Asnani. “Hosting fight tournaments like this is meaningful,” Asnani said, “because it helps empower young people, provides them with positive outlets, and keeps them off the streets. We welcome everyone to spread the message and join us.”