Ghana is set to host a landmark boxing event celebrating African pride and sporting legacy, as boxing icon Azumah Nelson is slated to receive a prestigious World Boxing Council (WBC) award during a high-profile fight night at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on June 13, 2025.
The event forms part of the WBC’s global “Year of Africa” celebrations and pays tribute to the continent’s immense contribution to the sport. It is being organised by Legacy Rise Sports Promotions—founded by Sharaf Mahama, son of former President John Dramani Mahama—and Amir Khan Promotions.
June 13 also marks a symbolic milestone in Azumah Nelson’s legendary journey: exactly 21 years since he became the first African inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004.
Affectionately known as “Zoom Zoom,” Nelson will be honoured for his groundbreaking career, which includes clinching the WBC featherweight world title in 1984 after defeating Wilfredo Gomez in Puerto Rico. He later moved up in weight to win and retain the super featherweight title through to 1997, cementing his place as arguably the greatest African boxer in history.
Now 66, Nelson’s influence continues to resonate, not only in Ghana but across the African continent. The upcoming Accra fight night is expected to attract boxing dignitaries, rising African talents, and global attention.
The award is a follow-up to February’s inaugural ABU/WBC Amateur Boxing Tournament held in Lagos, Nigeria, which brought together young boxers from across Africa, highlighting the continent’s growing boxing potential.
The WBC’s homage to Nelson during this African boxing celebration is seen as both a tribute to his enduring legacy and a rallying cry for the next generation of African champions.
