Ghanaian boxing legend Azumah Nelson has been appointed Vice Chairman and Special Technical Advisor to the Interim Management Committee (IMC) established to spearhead reforms in Ghana’s boxing fraternity.
The IMC was officially announced on Monday, September 29, 2025, after a high-level stakeholder engagement in Accra involving the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, the National Sports Authority, promoters, coaches, and other key figures in the sport.
The formation of the committee follows recommendations from a ministerial inquiry into the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun during a bout in Ghana.
Former Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) president Samir Captan will chair the IMC, with Nelson serving as his deputy. Other members include Felix Quartey, Dr. Hadi Mohammed, Dr. Ofori Asare, Lester Kwateng, and Prince Azanu. Patrick Johnson has been named secretary of the committee.
The IMC is expected to provide a clear roadmap for revamping the sport, beginning with the organisation of elections to select new executives who will manage the day-to-day operations of the GBA.
The committee will also be tasked with addressing safety concerns and restoring public confidence in the sport, which has been shaken by recent fatalities.
Ghana boxing has been under suspension following the death of young boxer Ernest Akushey, popularly known as “Bahubali,” in a recent fight.
The suspension, however, has sparked controversy, with some stakeholders describing it as unlawful and detrimental to the development of the sport.
Despite the disagreements, the establishment of the IMC is being hailed as a crucial step toward overhauling the structures of Ghanaian boxing.
With the involvement of Azumah Nelson—widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest boxing icons—hopes are high that the reforms will restore the sport’s integrity and pave the way for a safer and more vibrant future.
