‘Resist temptation to politicise efforts to promote boxing’
A Chief and boxing coach, Togbui Badu IV, has lauded the efforts of Mr Sharaf Mahama, son of the president, Mr John Dramani Mahama, for breathing life into professional boxing in Ghana.
Known in private life as Paul Dogboe, he urged all well-meaning Ghanaians to support his vision and resist the temptation to politicise efforts that directly impact the lives and aspirations of the youth.
“Let us uplift those who strive to build, not tear them down for political convenience,” Togbui Badu II said this in an interview with The Times Sports over the weekend.
Sharaf through his Legacy Rise Syndicate has kept the boxing arena buzzing with impressive promotions, putting the finest boxers in the ring, in the process filling the Bukom Boxing Arena to the brim.
The last of their show was staged in collaboration with former world champion, Amir Khan, and featured former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua.
Togbui Badu IV remarks came in the wake of statements made against the president’s son, questioning the source of funding for the elaborated shows.
But according to Togbui Badu IV, such comments were divisive and sought to politicise the activities Sharaf.
“Instead of attempting to bring him down, we must commend the young man (Sharaf) for leveraging his time, his family’s influence, and the support of his uncle, Mr Ibrahim Mahama, alongside the legacy of his father, President Mahama, to take boxing to the level desired,” he stated.
“With his promotions, meaningful opportunities have been created for youth from underprivileged communities across the country. Some of these boxers have been fighting for nothing or a pittance; but they are beginning to attract a lot of boxers because of the improved purse,” he added.
“It is unfortunate that rather than receiving due recognition and support, his dedication has been met with unwarranted criticism. I, Torgbui Badu IV empathise with his journey. Years ago, I faced similar struggles while working tirelessly to elevate the profile of Ghanaian boxing through the rise of my son, Isaac Dogboe. Despite the financial burdens and a lack of institutional backing, we filled arenas and inspired many, though the proceeds and support did not match our contributions, “he narrated.
According to him, the call to look past political affiliations and focus instead on impact, intent, and opportunity was profoundly important.
“Ghana’s boxing history is rich, but progress has too often been slowed by lack of infrastructure, support, and vision. When someone steps up, regardless of name or background—to revitalise that space, criticism should not outweigh encouragement,” Togbui Badu IV advised.
He called for a total support for the Legacy Rise Promotions and urged Ghanaian boxing to support him wholeheartedly in Ghana’s bid to raise new world champions.
BY ANDREW NORTEY
