Boxing: Lartey rewarded with Ghana Army promotion: President Mahama leads accolades
he Ghana Army has rewarded its rising boxing star, Jerry Lartey, with a well-deserved promotion following his recent capture of the World Boxing Association (WBA) International Super Lightweight title, earning him high praise from President John Dramani Mahama, Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Lartey, 29, has been elevated from Lance Corporal to Corporal, a recognition of his excellence in the ring and his discipline as a soldier.
The promotion was endorsed at the highest level of the Armed Forces, underlining the pride his achievement has brought to both the military and the nation.
The soldier-boxer clinched his first professional title on December 20 at the University of Ghana, producing a polished performance to defeat British challenger Jesse Brandon by unanimous decision (78–74, 78–74, 77–75). The bout, staged by Legacy Rise Sports Promotions, was witnessed at ringside by President Mahama, who followed the contest closely.
Impressive pro record
Since turning professional in May 2023, Lartey has posted an impressive record of eight wins and one draw, while serving nearly eight years in the Ghana Army—an uncommon blend of military service and elite sport that has now earned him formal recognition.
His decoration took place during the 2025 West African Soldiers’ Social Activity (WASSA) at Burma Camp, Accra. The annual event, which promotes camaraderie among the security services, was attended by President Mahama and senior military officials, with acting Defence Minister, Dr Ato Forson, formally presenting Lartey with his new rank.
Moments after donning his Corporal’s stripes, Lartey presented his WBA championship belt to the President, who warmly congratulated him.
“You are a source of pride to both the Ghana Armed Forces and the nation. I commend you on your promotion. I personally was at the ringside and proud of your victory,” President Mahama said.
Clearly moved by the honour, Lartey expressed gratitude for the recognition and said it had strengthened his resolve to achieve more.
“I’m happy to present the belt to the President; it encourages me to work harder,” he told the Daily Graphic.
Managed by Sharaf Mahama (son of President Mahama) under the Legacy Rise Sports Management stable, Lartey has already attracted interest from potential challengers, including Samuel Takyi and newly crowned National Super Lightweight champion Africanus Neequaye.
“Any boxer who wants to fight me, I have a team—LRS. They know who to call, so we can discuss anything about it,” he said.
