Accra Box Cup 2026 uncovers next generation of Ghana boxing talent
Wisdom Boxing Gym set the tone for identifying and nurturing the next generation of Ghanaian boxing talent with the inaugural Accra Box Cup 2026 — a two-day youth tournament for fighters under 15.
Held in collaboration with Outboxed, the grassroots talent hunt featured 62 young boxers, including three girls, drawn from 13 gyms across Accra, as well as two fighters from the Northern Boxing Club in Tamale.
Contests were held across nine weight divisions, ranging from 20–23kg to 44–47kg. Preliminary and semi-final bouts took place on day one, with 18 finalists advancing to Sunday’s finals.
The decisive bouts were staged in an electrifying atmosphere, with a crowd of over 3,000 spectators witnessing displays of skill, determination, and resilience from the young fighters.
Organisers placed a strong emphasis on safety, implementing strict medical protocols in line with guidelines from the Ghana Boxing Federation and the National Sports Authority.
According to Sarah Lotus Asare, administrator of Wisdom Boxing Gym, the long-term vision is to establish the Accra Box Cup as Ghana’s premier annual grassroots boxing platform.
She noted that the initiative also aims to promote boxing in schools by working closely with clubs to connect young athletes with educational institutions — a move expected to grow the sport’s fan base and national reach.
As part of the programme, all participants will benefit from a one-year free health insurance scheme.
“We aim to identify raw talent across all regions and provide a clear pathway from youth to elite boxing,” she told Graphic Sports.
“Beyond the ring, we are committed to reducing unsafe street fighting by channeling energy into sport, while promoting discipline, education, and character development,” she added.
The tournament’s standout performer was 14-year-old sensation Prince Larbie of Will Power Gym, who thrilled fans with a split decision victory over Jeffrey Sowah of Wisdom Gym in the 41–44kg division.
Other winners were Philemon Lomotey (44-47 kg), Charles Quartey (38-41), Joshua Martey (35-38), Kelvin Annan (32-35), Kingsley Asare (26-29 kg), Ishmael Quartey (23-26 kg), Jason Cobblah (20-23 kg), while the female clash between Lydia Martey and Blessings Lartey as weĺl as the mixed encounter between Simon Aryeetey and Vida Tackie both ended in draws.
Individual award winners were Prince Larbie (Boxer of the Tournament), Fredrick Dornor (Best Sportmanship Award), Joshua Martey (Best Display of Ring Craftmanship) and Ishmael Quartey (Discovery of the tournament).
