by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 11, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, International, Nigeria, Other Sports
British boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will not return to the ring until at least May next year, officially postponing any potential rematch with IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois.
Joshua suffered a fifth-round knockout at the hands of Dubois in September, following four knockdowns at Wembley. Originally, a rematch was planned for February 22, but Hearn revealed that injuries sustained during and after the fight mean Joshua won’t be ready by then.
“We had a very awkward conversation,” Hearn told Boxing News. “Joshua wanted to fight in February, but it was determined he couldn’t be physically prepared in time. Although there’s no major injury, he has some minor wear-and-tear that needs proper recovery.”
Hearn explained that Joshua, 35, remains eager for a rematch but emphasized that the team wants to ensure he’s fully prepared. “If he loses again, it may be time to seriously consider his future. So, we’re prioritizing his complete physical and mental readiness for when he returns in May or June.”
There’s also speculation around a future fight between Joshua and Tyson Fury, who is set to face Oleksandr Usyk on December 21.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 11, 2024 | Boxing, Ghana, Other Sports
Founder and CEO of Wisdom Boxing Gym, Coach Dr. Ofori Asare, has expressed confidence that Haruna Mohammed, known as ‘Thunder,’ will retain his National Cruiserweight title against challenger Jacob Dickson on November 23 at Bukom Boxing Arena. The highly anticipated fight, dubbed the ‘Battle of the Beasts,’ promises an exciting showdown.
During an interview on Omashi TV’s “The Big Fight Night,” Dr. Asare praised former boxer Ayitey Powers for establishing a promotional outfit that supports boxers with competitive packages, calling it a positive initiative for Ghana’s boxing community. Dr. Asare, who is also the Technical Director of the Ghana Boxing Federation and the Black Bombers, encouraged greater recognition for national champions, as these titles are vital stepping stones toward international boxing success.
“We have our eyes on West African, African, Commonwealth, and eventually world titles. Haruna’s journey will be one of consistent growth, and this fight is an important milestone,” Dr. Asare emphasized.
Alongside Dr. Asare, bantamweight boxer Theophilus ‘Lopez’ Allotey, fresh off a training tour in the British Cayman Islands, expressed eagerness for the November 23 event. Allotey, who sharpened his skills in the Cayman Islands, is excited to showcase his progress against an as-yet-unnamed opponent.
The event will also feature a National Super Middleweight title rematch between Elvis Ahorgah, aka ‘Soldier Boxer,’ and Ernest Akushey, known as ‘Baubali.’ Additional bouts include matches with Daniel Ankrah and Stephen Coffie.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 11, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, International, Other Sports
Theophilus Nii Kpakpo Lopez Allotey, popularly known as Theo Lopez, has shared that his recent training in the Cayman Islands has taken his skills to new heights. Under the guidance of world-class coaches and facilities provided by Palm Heights Athletics (PHA), Allotey has transformed into a more powerful and formidable boxer.
In October, Allotey and his coach, Dr. Ofori Asare—who also serves as the national team technical director—were invited by PHA to train at their high-performance center, which doubles as a holiday resort. This opportunity allowed Allotey to prepare intensively, building his strength, stamina, and overall fighting prowess.
Having represented Ghana in Olympic qualifiers in Dakar, Senegal, Thailand, and Italy, Allotey believes he’s moved from an amateur to a professional level. “My fans say I’m too gentle in the ring. This time, they’ll see the wolf and the beast in me,” he remarked during an exclusive interview on Omashi TV.
The young fighter from Sempe, born in Atukpai and an alumnus of La Presby SHS, began boxing at the age of seven and joined the Wisdom Boxing Club by age 10. He expressed gratitude to Coach Dr. Asare, whom he regards as both a mentor and father figure.
Coach Dr. Asare is confident that Allotey is on the path to becoming a world champion. “We’ve accepted a match on Ayitey Powers Promotions’ ‘Battle of the Beasts’ event on November 23 at Bukom Boxing Arena. I urge fans to witness the new, explosive Theo Lopez Allotey,” Dr. Asare promised.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 11, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Other Sports
The Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) recently concluded an intensive four-day training course for professional boxing judges and referees, held from November 5th to 8th, 2024, at the Brai Ayonote Boxing Complex, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
Led by esteemed Ghanaian referee and judge Mr. Roger Barnor, the course was organized with support from Balmoral Group, aiming to enhance officiating standards in Nigerian boxing. Mr. Barnor, with extensive experience in the ring, provided in-depth training on the essential skills and practices required for professional boxing officials.
Key topics covered included pre-match preparation, in-ring communication, knockdown procedures, criteria for stopping fights, and post-fight protocols. The sessions were practical and engaging, equipping officials with advanced knowledge to ensure safe and fair matches.
“I’m pleased to share my expertise with the NBBofC officials,” Mr. Barnor commented. “Competent officiating is crucial to Nigerian boxing’s growth, and I’m impressed by the participants’ commitment to improving their skills.”
A written examination followed the training to evaluate participants’ grasp of the material. This program highlights NBBofC’s dedication to promoting boxing in Nigeria by fostering well-trained, professional officiating staff.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Nov 8, 2024 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Other Sports
Despite a hard-fought 3-2 loss to German player Ricardo Walther in the round of 16 at the WTT Frankfurt 2024, Nigerian table tennis star Quadri Aruna garnered widespread acclaim from the African table tennis community. His determined play at the Süwag Energie Arena left a lasting impression, with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) commending his fighting spirit on their official X handle.
Aruna’s journey in Frankfurt began with an impressive comeback on Sunday, where he upset the tournament’s No. 5 seed, Tomokazu Harimoto. Trailing 0-2, Aruna rallied with the support of the crowd, ultimately clinching a thrilling 3-2 victory (7-11, 11-13, 11-5, 14-12, 11-3). Reflecting on his performance, the Ibadan-born athlete expressed gratitude for the crowd’s encouragement and reaffirmed his dedication to representing Nigeria and Africa proudly.
This marks Aruna’s second-ever match win at the WTT Champions level, following his breakthrough win just a week earlier in Montpellier. Although Harimoto was anticipated to make a strong showing, Aruna’s resilience forced a decisive set, electrifying the Frankfurt crowd and showcasing his remarkable skill and determination.
