Sekondi-Takoradi is known for many things, its bustling ports, deep musical roots, and rich cultural heritage.
But beyond these, the city once had a thriving boxing culture that placed it among Ghana’s sporting powerhouses.
During its golden years, the twin city was home to a vibrant boxing scene, where packed arenas, dedicated gyms, and passionate fans made the sport more than just entertainment, it was a way of life. From local bouts to national championships, boxing provided young talents with an avenue to rise from humble beginnings to national and even international stardom.
Some of Ghana’s finest fighters emerged from this boxing stronghold. Legendary names like Eddie Blay, who competed in the 1960 and 1964 Olympics—winning bronze in the light welterweight (63.5 kg) division in 1964—and Ekow Nkranie, the national heavyweight champion of the 1970s, carried Sekondi-Takoradi’s name onto the global stage. For decades, the city stood tall as a beacon of boxing excellence.
However, today, the sport that once united communities and gave hope to many young athletes is fading.
“My father was a well-known boxer, but boxing has declined significantly in Takoradi,” says Abdul Ganiyu, son of former fighter Mahman Terror. “We used to see boxing events at Zenith, Prempeh Hall, and Gyandu Park. But now, Takoradi lacks arenas to host fights, and I hope boxing enthusiasts can help revive the sport.”
Veteran boxing enthusiast Mr. Twum Berima recalls the sport’s vibrant past and the neighborhoods that dominated the scene. “Areas like Go-Man-Go, Asemensido, Kwesimintsim Zongo, and Effiakuma all had their local boxing heroes. There was real excitement around the sport,” he says.
Despite the decline, some young talents still hold onto their dreams. Twenty-one-year-old Isaac Eshun and 17-year-old Papa Ackon, son of the late Ekow Nkranie, aspire to be professional boxers. But without access to professional training, mentorship, or the right equipment, their ambitions hang by a thread.
“I have dreamed of becoming a boxer since childhood,” Isaac shares. “But I struggle with proper training. I need professional coaching to help me rise to the top.”
Papa Ackon echoes similar challenges. “I’m happy to be training, but it’s difficult. We lack proper training equipment and professional guidance,” he laments.
In the past, legends like Ekow Nkranie actively worked to sustain the sport. “After retiring, Nkranie set up a gym at Go-Man-Go to train aspiring boxers,” says Mr. Berima. “Unfortunately, after his passing, that legacy has not been maintained.”
Today, the sport that once defined Sekondi-Takoradi has faded into history. While Isaac and Papa still chase their dreams, the lack of support, facilities, and mentorship puts their ambitions at risk.
Will Sekondi-Takoradi ever reclaim its place as Ghana’s boxing hub, or will its legacy remain just a distant memory?
By Barak Mintah Brown
