by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International
Joseph “The Jaguar” Commey, a rising star from Ghana, has been named the 2024 Universal Boxing Organization™ (UBO) Prospect of the Year.
The 21-year-old, a standout amateur, has quickly established himself as one of Ghana’s brightest boxing talents. On November 24, at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Commey made his professional debut in spectacular fashion. Facing seasoned opponent Richman Ashelley, Commey claimed the UBO Continental (Africa) Lightweight title in a competitive bout, securing a unanimous decision victory.
Achieving championship success in his first pro fight is a rare feat, but Commey demonstrated exceptional skill and composure, proving he belongs at the top level. With his promising career just beginning, fans and experts anticipate many more titles in his future.
Honorable Mentions:
Timur Bassitov (UBO Continental (Asia) Light Heavyweight champion)
Martin Gruy (UBO International Middleweight champion)
Davide Carpentieri (UBO Youth Lightweight champion)
Riccardo Rizzi (UBO Continental (Asia) Super Welterweight champion)
Alexandro Foglia (UBO Youth Super Bantamweight champion)
Danylo Huncharuk (UBO East Europe Lightweight champion)
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 8, 2025 | Boxing, Ghana
Only four of the 42 referees and judges newly trained by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) are currently active in officiating sanctioned boxing matches.
The GBA’s two-day training course took place on December 1st and 2nd, 2022, at The Gym Boxing Club in Accra. Among the active officials are Nathaniel Neequaye Kotey, a marketing student at Methodist University and an employee of Multichoice, and David Nettey, a building technology student at Accra Technical University. Both are determined to make a lasting impact on boxing as world-class referees.
In an exclusive interview on The Big Fight Night on Omashi TV, the duo shared their passion for the sport and their dedication to self-development. Kotey, the 2024 Boxing Ghana Referee of the Year, credits his motivation to his uncle, GBA President Abraham Neequaye. Nettey, inspired by his father, Vincent Akai Nettey, a national Black Bombers coach, shared that his journey began with assisting young boxers at the gym before seizing the opportunity to referee.
The two young referees emphasized their commitment to enhancing Ghana’s boxing industry rather than chasing immediate success or international exposure. They highlighted the importance of financial investment and better equipment for grassroots development to produce more quality boxers at juvenile and amateur levels.
Kotey expressed appreciation for the Wisdom Boxing Club, where he honed his practical skills, and stressed the importance of discipline for boxers aiming for success. Nettey advised boxing coaches and fans to familiarize themselves with the rules of the sport to prevent misunderstandings and controversies.
Both officials acknowledged the need for fairness and safety in the ring and used the platform to educate fans about controversial decisions in bouts. They concluded by wishing their families, fans, and the boxing community a prosperous new year.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 3, 2025 | Ghana, Other Sports
Ghanaian youth arm wrestlers Blessed Naa Abeka Nunoo, Henry Otoo, and Daniel Acquah delivered stellar performances at the De Fin D’Annee Arm Wrestling Championship, held on Saturday at Stade Municipal de Lomé, Togo.
The event, organized by Togo’s Ministry of Sports to celebrate their success at the 2023 African Games, featured over 200 athletes from Togo, Nigeria, Ghana, and Benin competing in various categories.
Blessed Naa Abeka Nunoo, ranked World No. 5 and Africa’s No. 1 in the Youth 60kg Women’s category, stunned audiences by defeating heavier opponents Ako Assoli (86kg) and Charite Nukunu (94kg) to secure the Gold medal. Her victory showcased her unmatched strength, technique, and determination to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
In the Men’s 70kg category, Henry Otoo and Daniel Acquah dominated their competitors, culminating in a dramatic final match between the two Ghanaians. Otoo emerged victorious with Gold, while Acquah claimed the Silver, highlighting Ghana’s prowess in arm wrestling.
Their performances also secured automatic qualification for the 2025 edition of the championship, solidifying Ghana’s rising reputation in the sp
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 3, 2025 | Ghana, Other Sports
Ghana Skate proudly announces the appointment of Mr. Johnson Kwaku Gameli Kportufe as the Director of Communications for World Skate Africa. This prestigious decision was confirmed by the President of World Skate Africa, following the Statutes of World Skate and the Ordinary and Elective Congress held on September 7, 2024, in Rome, Italy.
In his new role, Mr. Kportufe will lead efforts to promote the mission and values of World Skate Africa, enhancing collaboration and communication among member nations. His deep expertise and extensive experience are expected to significantly boost the visibility and influence of skateboarding and roller sports across the African continent.
Additionally, Mr. Kportufe has been appointed to the Executive Committee of World Skate Africa, with responsibilities aligned with the Statutes of World Skate. This dual role highlights his capability and dedication to advancing the growth and development of roller sports in Africa.
Fluent in both French and English, Mr. Kportufe is well-positioned to drive impactful initiatives within the communications department. The President of World Skate Africa expressed confidence in his appointment, calling it a significant milestone for the Federation in Africa.
Ghana Skate extends heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Kportufe and looks forward to collaborating with him to promote roller sports in Ghana and beyond.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 3, 2025 | Ghana, Other Sports
The Ghana Cycling Federation proudly announces the successful conclusion of the 10th National Cycling Road Championships, held on November 30, 2024, along the scenic Olebu-Ablekuma-Pokuasi route. This milestone event showcased the nation’s top cycling talent, featuring impressive performances across Elite, Under-23, and Junior categories.
Event Overview:
Over 65 cyclists from five regions competed in the championship, which celebrated athleticism, endurance, and sportsmanship. The challenging course tested riders’ strength and strategy, set against breathtaking landscapes.
Notable Achievements:
Francis Amu (FCG Cycling Club) dominated the Elite Men’s category, completing the 100 km race in 2 hours, 37 minutes, 20 seconds at an average speed of 38.14 km/h.
Ellen Anim (Club Sky Team) excelled in the Elite Women’s races, clocking 1 hour, 46 minutes, 1 second for the 50 km road race and 47 minutes, 3 seconds for the 25 km time trial.
Emmanuel Sesi (Royal Stars Cycling Club, Volta Region) claimed first place in the Under-23 Men’s race and secured second in the Elite Men’s category with a time of 2 hours, 25 minutes, 10 seconds over 100 km.
Farrakhan Shaaban Mohammed (River Park, Eastern Region), a promising 17-year-old, won the Junior Men’s 62.5 km road race (1 hour, 47 minutes, 14 seconds) and the 25 km time trial (38 minutes, 10 seconds), showcasing his advanced training techniques.
Frank Love Quaye (The Boss Tribes Cycling Club) emerged victorious in the Elite and Under-23 25 km time trials with an impressive time of 36 minutes, 3 seconds at an average speed of 41.61 km/h.
Participation and Impact:
The event brought together 56 male and 5 female cyclists from 12 clubs, attracting over 2,000 enthusiastic spectators, including children from the Sena Foundation School cycling initiative.
Statement from GCF President:
“This 10th edition marks a significant milestone in the growth of cycling in Ghana. It inspires future generations to embrace this sport and promotes unity and healthy living,” stated Mohammed B. Sahnoon Esq., President of the Ghana Cycling Federation.
Gratitude and Future Plans:
The GCF expressed gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, and partners for their support. Preparations are already underway for the 11th edition in June 2025, with the Federation focusing on developing cycling in Ghana and preparing for LA 2028 through initiatives like the Bahati Foundation’s training program in Los Angeles.
