by Silas Boahene | Apr 1, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International
midst the glory of Samuel Takyi’s bronze win at Tokyo 2020, Ghana Boxing’s journey to Paris 2024 has faced hurdles. However, the seven medal-winning Black Bombers from the 13th African Games have demonstrated their potential and must capitalize on this final opportunity in Bangkok to secure their spots.
The quartet of Samuel Takyi, Mohammed Aryeetey, Amadu Mohammed, and Joseph Commey, along with Abu Kamoko, Theophilus Allotey, and Janet Acquah, have proven their mettle. It’s imperative they participate in the upcoming event in Thailand, slated between May 23 and June 3, 2024, as this could be Ghana’s ticket to Paris 2024.
Boxing is set to be fiercely competitive at the 2024 Olympics, making qualification paramount. The qualification process, spanning various continents, offers three pathways for national federations to secure spots for their athletes in Paris. Notably, the recent World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Italy saw 49 quotas awarded, with 51 more up for grabs in Bangkok.
With this crucial opportunity ahead, the Black Bombers must prepare diligently, drawing from their past successes and experiences. Their journey to Paris 2024 hangs in the balance, and every effort must be made to ensure their presence on the Olympic stage once again.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 1, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
West Ham United midfielder Mohammed Kudus says there is no real intention behind his recent goal celebration despite other people trying to find meaning to it. Kudus has taken to sitting on the advertising hoardings and waiting for his teammates to mob him after scoring, a celebration that has become a trademark for him since joining the Hammers. The celebration has become so viral that many others have also gone ahead to choose the same style. Leicester City’s Stephy Mavididi and Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho with the latter’s coming the Red Devils’ win over the Hammers in the Premier League earlier this year. Speaking to The Guardian, Kudu explained the rationale behind the recent celebration. “I just thought about something out of the box and then some other people followed it up,” Kudus said. “Now there’s a conversation about whose is better. I’ll have to come up with another juice and put more spices in the tin. It’s all about resting after scoring a goal. “There’s no deeper meaning. I just see it as entertainment, something to make people happy and worth the ticket that they bought. I’m still just having fun in the playground
by Silas Boahene | Mar 30, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, International
WBO Africa Featherweight Champion, John Abaja Laryea, was honored with specially branded boxing equipment during a grand ceremony at the Bronx Gym on Thursday, courtesy of his management team.
The customized training gear, courtesy of renowned boxing manager Mr. Peter Kahn, was officially handed over by Pastor Henry and Ohene Ameyaw, co-managers of the WBO titlist.
Mr. Sammy Anim Addo, CEO of Bronx Boxing Promotions, emphasized the importance of providing encouragement and motivation to Laryea as he enters a new phase of his career. He expressed gratitude to Mr. Kahn for his support.
Describing Laryea, also known as ‘The Expensive Boxer,’ as a long-standing African champion within the WBO ranks, Mr. Anim Addo revealed plans to elevate him closer to a world title. This includes arranging opportunities for Laryea to train and potentially compete in the USA.
Acknowledging the unpredictable nature of boxing, Mr. Anim Addo stressed the significance of Laryea familiarizing himself with the culture and competition environment in the United States before pursuing major fights.
Coach Carl Lokko endorsed the decision to relocate Laryea to the USA, where he would have the chance to train alongside seasoned boxers and gain valuable experience. “It’s an exciting prospect for Abaja to train in the USA, and we’re fully supportive,” he remarked.
Mr. Ohene Ameyaw, Laryea’s co-manager, highlighted the importance of experiential learning, expressing confidence that the WBO Africa champion would benefit significantly from his time in the USA.
He also pointed out the resurgence of boxing in the Bukom and James Town areas of Accra, fueled by Ghana’s impressive performance in winning seven medals at the African Games.
by Silas Boahene | Mar 30, 2024 | Africa, Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Ghana, International, Other Sports, Soccer
Dr. Kwaku Ofosu-Asare, the Executive Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 2023 African Games, has countered claims made by Kobena Woyome regarding the success of the continental event, dismissing Woyome’s characterization of it as a “monumental disaster.”
Despite Ghana hosting the Games for the first time in its history and securing a commendable tally of 69 medals over the official 16-day period, Woyome, the Ranking Member on the Youth and Sports Committee of Parliament, criticized the organization as “poorly organized” and “shambolic,” particularly considering the substantial expenditure of “staggering” $240 million.
Responding to Woyome’s remarks, Dr. Ofosu-Asare emphasized the subjective nature of opinions, stating, “He is entitled to his view, and I disagree with him to a larger extent.” He urged a broader assessment beyond financial metrics, highlighting the social capital accrued by Ghana as a host nation.
Dr. Ofosu-Asare defended the overall success of the Games, acknowledging minor setbacks while affirming the inherent challenges faced in such large-scale endeavors, particularly within the current socio-political climate.
With participation from 54 countries across 29 sports disciplines at nine venues, the 2023 African Games represented a significant milestone in Ghana’s sporting history, despite differing opinions on its execution.
by Silas Boahene | Mar 30, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International
Braimah Kamoko, former cruiserweight champion, holds firm belief in his son, Abubakar Kamoko, aka ‘Tilapia,’ aspiring to become a world champion in boxing.
Following Tilapia’s recent silver medal win at the African Games, surpassing his father’s achievement of a bronze medal in 1999, Braimah Kamoko is optimistic about his son’s prospects.
Reflecting on Tilapia’s performance, Braimah expressed confidence in his son’s capabilities, attributing his potential success to both his own legacy and the guidance of a capable management team.
“Abu is a talented boxer, and his association with my name adds to his motivation. With the right support and management, I believe Abu can reach the pinnacle of boxing.”
Drawing from his extensive boxing career, Braimah emphasized the importance of hard work and discipline in achieving boxing success.
“There’s no shortcut in boxing; hard work is key. Abu needs to dedicate himself to rigorous training, listen to his coach, and maintain focus. Avoiding distractions like women and alcohol is crucial; they can derail a boxer’s career.”
At just 19 years old, Abubakar Kamoko is poised to represent Ghana at the upcoming Boxing Olympic Qualifiers in Bangkok, Thailand, from May 23rd to June 3rd, marking a significant step towards his aspirations in the sport.
