By: Kwame Bediako
Ghanaian boxing legend Azumah Nelson is set to receive another prestigious honour from the World Boxing Council (WBC) as part of the ongoing “Year of Africa” celebrations. The event will feature a major fight show in Accra next month, highlighting Nelson’s remarkable career and contributions to African boxing.
The ceremony is scheduled for June 13, at the Bukom Boxing Arena, exactly 21 years after Azumah Nelson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004, becoming the first Ghanaian and African boxer to achieve that feat.
“The Professor,” as Nelson is affectionately known, will be celebrated for his legendary achievements and enduring legacy in the sport. He first captured the WBC featherweight world title in December 1984 by defeating Wilfredo Gómez in Puerto Rico. He held that title until 1988, when he moved up to claim the super featherweight title — a belt he held twice and reigned over until 1997. His record of holding world titles for more than a decade remains unmatched by any African boxer.
Widely regarded as the greatest African boxer of all time, Azumah Nelson has received numerous accolades from the WBC since his Hall of Fame induction. Among them is recognition as the greatest super featherweight of all time. In 2018, during his 60th birthday celebration in Accra, the WBC presented him with a silver vase and two honorary belts — a tribute to his iconic status and national pride.
The “Year of Africa” festivities, scheduled to culminate in 2025, aim to celebrate the rich history and achievements of African boxing. Earlier this year, Lagos, Nigeria, hosted the inaugural ABU/WBC Amateur Boxing Tournament, showcasing the continent’s emerging talent.
The upcoming fight night in Accra, organised by former world champion Amir Khan and Sharaf Mahama, son of Ghana’s President, continues this celebration of African boxing excellence.
