Armwrestling Supermatch: Sackey, Acquah, others thrill fans
The much-anticipated Armwrestling Supermatch on Thursday night in Accra lived up to its billing, with electrifying intensity erupting at the Accra Sports Stadium as Ghana’s top pullers battled for supremacy.
The sweep contest proved a true test of strength, skill and mental toughness, featuring elite armwrestlers who in 2025 either dominated the African continent or claimed world championship medals.
The atmosphere was charged from the opening bouts, with every competitor locked in and eyeing victory. Immigration officer Godwin Sackey, popularly known as “Fadona”, was all smiles as he relied on lightning-fast reflexes to overpower the fast-improving Joshua Yeboah, sealing a commanding 4–1 sweep victory.
In the men’s 60kg category, Daniel Acquah of the Ghana Prisons Service—towering and visibly powerful—combined showmanship with focus, unleashing his fury to demolish compatriot Henry Otoo, also of the Prisons Service.
In the women’s category, Policewoman and 2024 World Champion Grace Minta, returning from a competitive break, faced a stern test against Linda Akoma. However, her experience and composure shone through as she clinched a 2–0 sweep, reaffirming her class.
One of the night’s most gripping encounters saw World silver medallist and immigration officer Blessed Abeka Nunoo take on Mabel Yeboah of the Ghana Prisons Service, Africa’s best female puller in 2025. Mabel’s superior reflexes and tactical sharpness proved decisive as she claimed a stylish 2–1 sweep victory.
Elsewhere, Haruna Tahiru’s brute strength and experience paid dividends as he secured a thrilling win over Captain Edward Yamoah Asamoah, popularly known as “Royal”, in a fiercely contested bout. In the women’s heavyweight division, Afia Kumah moved up in weight to dethrone Florence Boakye, drawing loud approval from the crowd.
As the intensity peaked, fans cheered, chanted and roared for their favourite pullers, erupting in celebration as winners were announced, while athletes exchanged heartfelt congratulations.
The Armwrestling Supermatch attracted several top dignitaries, including Dr. Fred Awaah, Board Chairman of the National Sports Authority; Lawyer Richard Akpokavie, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee; and Mr. Bawa Fuseini, Mr. Kamal Sulley, Mr. Mawuko Afadzinu and Madam Rafatu Inusah, presidents of Athletics, Rowing, Table Tennis and Rugby respectively.
Other dignitaries present included Mr. Jesse Agyepong, Mr. Godfrey Amarteyfio, Hon. Joseph Cudjoe, Mr. Edwin Amankwah and Mr. Percy Amoah, all board members of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation.
The Armwrestling Supermatch was a resounding success, showcasing the very best of Ghanaian armwrestling. The night ended with Godwin Sackey openly buzzing about a potential future face-off against Haruna Tahiru—setting the stage for another blockbuster showdown.
