Samuel Takyi, Ghana’s 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games bronze medalist, is set to make his highly anticipated professional debut on April 15, 2022, at the Accra City Hotel (formerly Novotel) in a Super Featherweight bout against Kamaradeen Boyefio. The 21-year-old, known as the Ring Warrior, expressed his excitement to Modern Ghana, stating, “I cannot wait for this chance to entertain the fans with classic boxing and win on a meritorious note.” Takyi’s Olympic success, where he became the first Ghanaian boxer to win a medal since Prince Amartey in 1972, has raised expectations for a thrilling professional career.
Training Under a Legend
Under the guidance of his coach, Ike ‘Bazooka’ Quartey, a former WBA Welterweight champion, Takyi has prepared rigorously for his debut. “I have trained well under my coach Ike Bazooka Quartey, and we are coming with something special,” he told the press. Quartey, who competed at the 1988 Seoul Olympics but did not medal, drew parallels between Takyi and boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr., who also won Olympic bronze before achieving world championship glory. Quartey expressed confidence that Takyi possesses the talent and discipline to become a world champion in the near future, leveraging his Olympic experience and technical skills.
A Night of Fireworks at Accra City Hotel
The Super Featherweight clash promises to be a spectacle, with Takyi’s aggressive style and flair expected to produce “fireworks and fun” against Boyefio, a seasoned opponent. Promoted by Bazooka Promotions in partnership with Accra City Hotel and supported by various Ghanaian media houses, the event will feature exciting undercard bouts showcasing both young and experienced boxers. The fight night aims to spotlight Ghana’s rich boxing heritage, particularly in the Bukom community, where Takyi hails from, known for producing legends like Azumah Nelson and Joshua Clottey.
Takyi’s Path to Greatness
Takyi’s bronze medal at Tokyo 2020, where he defeated David de Pina (Cape Verde) and Jean Caicedo (Colombia) before falling to Duke Ragan (USA) in the semi-finals, marked a historic moment for African boxing. His transition to the professional ranks is seen as a stepping stone toward global stardom. “Since the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, I have been waiting for this chance, and I want to give Ghanaians a good fight that would be remembered,” Takyi said, highlighting his ambition to entertain and inspire fans. His debut is expected to draw significant attention, with live coverage amplifying the event’s reach.
A Bright Future for Ghanaian Boxing
Bazooka Promotions aims to elevate Ghanaian boxing through events like this, building on the legacy of Quartey and other champions. The Accra City Hotel bout is a platform for Takyi to showcase his potential as a future world champion, with Quartey’s mentorship providing a strong foundation. The undercard, featuring a mix of prospects and veterans, will further highlight the depth of talent in Ghana. As Takyi steps into the professional ring, his debut marks a new chapter in his journey and a proud moment for Ghanaian sports.
