Depay inspires young boxers in Accra as Cheddar joins fun night

Dutch football star of Ghanaian heritage Memphis Depay made a significant impact last Friday as the guest of honour at a special fight night for juvenile boxers in Accra.

The event was part of his commitment to support children from deprived communities, with a particular focus on helping young boxers realise their dreams.

The 2024 edition of the annual Memphis Depay Fight Day, sponsored by the former Manchester United and Barcelona star, featured an exciting series of ten thrilling bouts.

Juvenile, youth and elite boxers competed at the old Kingsway building in Ussher Town, Accra, with the crowd showing their enthusiasm and support throughout the evening.

Depay’s initiative began two years ago when he visited The Gym Boxing & Fitness facility, owned by Nii Gonti Ajoor I, the Atukpai Mantse.

A renowned boxing trainer, Ajoor I coached Joseph ‘King Kong’ Agbeko to two world title wins. Depay’s visit aimed to support the young boxers' training at the gym, and this effort has since extended to the wider Ga Mashie (Ussher Town/Jamestown) community.

At Friday’s fight night, Depay reaffirmed his commitment to continue the event annually. He also announced that 100 pairs of gloves, which were being shipped from Brazil, where he currently plays for Corinthians, would be distributed to the young boxers as part of the initiative.

The atmosphere at the event reached new heights with the arrival of business mogul Nana Kwame Bediako, known as Cheddar, leader of the New Force Movement.

Cheddar, a close friend of Depay, was invited to the programme and he delivered a motivational speech.

Cheddar shared a personal connection to the sport, revealing that his mother, Kwarley, a Ga from Chorkor, had been a boxer in her youth.

He took the opportunity to advise the young fighters to stay disciplined, committed and focused on their goals.

“I believe the youth must fight for a better future,” Cheddar said. “When I see young people, especially from deprived communities, I am motivated to support them in achieving their ambitions. I am eager to push them to succeed because the future belongs to them.”

Cheddar, who ran as an independent presidential candidate in the recent general election, also expressed his passion for empowering the youth and helping them to realise their full potential.

Last Friday’s event was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on the young athletes and the Accra community.

Depay’s ongoing support for these aspiring boxers underscores his commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for youth from disadvantaged backgrounds.