By Nadia Ntiamoah
After several weeks of suspension, professional boxing in Ghana is officially set to return.
The National Sports Authority (NSA) has announced that the ban on the sport will be lifted effective Thursday, November 6, 2025, paving the way for the revival of one of the nation’s most historic and celebrated sporting disciplines.
The decision comes after extensive consultations among the NSA, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, and the Interim Management Committee (IMC) constituted to restructure the sport following governance, safety, and medical concerns that prompted the suspension earlier this year.
Suspension
In early 2025, the professional boxing activities were halted after the NSA raised red flags over weak administrative structures, poor medical supervision, and lapses in the safety of boxers during competitions.
This was largely instigated by the death of a Nigerian boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju during a professional bout at the Bukom Arena against his Ghanaian counterpart, Jon Mbanugu.
Several incidents of inadequate ringside medical support and the absence of standard insurance for fighters had sparked public concern, forcing the NSA and the Ministry of Sports to intervene.
The IMC was subsequently tasked to carry out a comprehensive review of the sport’s management, focusing on restoring professional standards and ensuring compliance with international boxing regulations.
Safety Protocols Introduced
Announcing the lifting of the suspension, the NSA stated that the IMC had made “significant progress” in addressing the issues that led to the ban.
Among the new reforms introduced are enhanced medical and safety protocols, improved governance systems, and stricter administrative oversight.
Key initiatives under the restructured framework include:
Publication of new Medical and Safety Manuals, Codes, and Regulations;
Establishment of a Functional Interim Medical Commission;
Creation of a Centralized Medical Database for all registered boxers;
Implementation of an Approved Insurance Framework;
Introduction of a Sustainable Medical Support System; and
Certification of Ringside and Medical Personnel.
According to the NSA, these reforms are not only designed to protect the lives and welfare of athletes but also to enhance Ghana’s reputation as a credible boxing destination on the African continent and beyond.
The boxing legacy, which has produced global icons such as Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, and Joshua Clottey, suffered a major setback during the suspension period.
However, with the new regulatory measures in place, the NSA is optimistic that the sport will return stronger and more professionally managed.
“This marks a major step toward restoring Ghana’s illustrious and proud boxing heritage,” the NSA noted in its statement. “We commend the IMC, athletes, and stakeholders for their patience and cooperation during the reform process.”
Stakeholder Engagement
The NSA revealed that in the coming weeks, it will roll out a nationwide educational and engagement campaign with boxing promoters, gyms, and stakeholders to introduce the new operational guidelines.
The initiative will also promote new partnerships aimed at improving the welfare and financial stability of Ghanaian boxers.
“We look forward to a vibrant return of professional boxing and encourage both local and foreign promoters to bring international bouts to Ghana under these enhanced standards,” the Authority added.
