Ghana’s National Sports Authority will officially lift its suspension on professional boxing this Thursday, reopening the doors for international promotions and setting the stage for Matchroom Boxing’s first-ever event in the country.
The ban was imposed earlier this year following two tragic boxing-related deaths within six months. At the time, the NSA said the suspension was “a necessary step to protect lives, uphold the integrity of the sport and ensure its future.” Since then, the organization has implemented stricter safety measures and improved governance standards to make the sport safer for all participants.
The first major international promoter to benefit will be Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom, which is set to stage a December 20 event at Legom Sports Stadium in Accra, headlined by a clash between Craig Richards and Dan Azeez. The DAZN-broadcast card will also feature heavyweight prospect Leo Atang and Indian southpaw Nishant Dev.
In a statement, the NSA confirmed that “significant progress” had been made to address the issues behind the suspension, adding: “The Authority looks forward to a vibrant return of professional boxing and encourages local as well as foreign promoters to bring international bouts and collaborations to Ghana under these enhanced standards.”
According to Hearn, the December show will serve as a “precursor” to an even bigger event early next year - one that could feature Anthony Joshua making his long-awaited return. The two-time world heavyweight champion is already back in training and expected to fight in early 2026.
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