The hopes and aspirations of Coach Dr. Ofori Asare and his Wisdom Boxing team to sweep five gold medals at the 2026 were dashed, as they managed only one gold medal by Abdul Omar Wahid, who defeated a fellow gymmate.
Lionel Owoo was disqualified and replaced in the Light Flyweight-48kg division, so he could not fight in the final.
The three others all lost to boxers from the Black Panthers Gym at Jamestown.
Issah Okine lost to Precious Akai Nettey of Attoh Quarshie Gym.
Ebenezer Ankrah was too good for James Okoe, aka ‘Tiger,’ while Mathias Ashitey dominated Caleb Mensah in their hot Bantamweight final contest.
Black Panthers’ other gold was secured by Ibrahim Doku, aka ‘Boosu’, after beating George Dowuona of Will Power Boxing Club.
Assistant coach Okoe of the Black Panthers was the happiest man after the bouts and boasted that he had beaten Ghana’s international coach.
“I am the number one in this championship,p and I thank my senior coach Ebenezer Adjei for allowing me to lead the team,” he said.
He expressed that young coaches deserve some exposure to build their capacity.
Coach Okoe commended the new administration of the Ghana Boxing Federation, headed by Dauda Fuseni, and wished them success in their term.
He noted that the championship was well organised; however, a misunderstanding among the fans erupted in chaos, which lasted for a few minutes, and proceedings continued.
He suggested tight security at the Bukom Boxing Arena to prevent fights among the fans.
He said officiating was fair and balanced, while all the boxers who were at the final displayed their best.
Coach Dr. Ofori Asare said he will not comment, but congratulated his assistant coaches for their hard work, which resulted in many finalists.
Meanwhile, Akotoku Acadeisare very happy to grab one gold and a representative in the new Black Bombers.
By Sammy Heywood Okine
