Joshua Clottey calls for welfare packages for retired boxers

Former IBF welterweight champion Joshua “Hitter” Clottey has added his voice to growing calls for better welfare systems for Ghanaian boxers, urging authorities and the government to act swiftly before more retired fighters fall into poverty and neglect.

Clottey was reacting to a recent feature, “Forgotten Champions: The Harsh Reality of Ghanaian Boxers After Retirement,” which highlighted the struggles of former world champions who, despite bringing glory to Ghana, now face financial hardship, ill health, and neglect.

According to Clottey, the situation is both heartbreaking and unacceptable. “We cannot continue to celebrate boxers when they win world titles and then forget them when they retire. Many of our heroes, who have lifted Ghana’s flag high, are suffering in silence. This is the time for the Ghana Boxing Authority and government to create proper welfare packages,” he told Graphic Sports.

The former champion emphasised that boxing is one of the most dangerous sports in the world, with fighters sacrificing their health and risking long-term injuries for national pride. “We have seen how other countries protect their boxers with pension plans, medical care, and retirement funds. Why can’t we do the same here in Ghana? These boxers give their youth, their blood, and their lives to the sport. We owe them more than applause,” Clottey added.

He proposed the establishment of a Boxers’ Pension Fund and mandatory health insurance for both active and retired fighters, supported by promoters, sanctioning bodies, and government agencies. He also called for educational and financial literacy programs to prepare boxers for life after the ring.

Clottey stressed that Ghana’s rich boxing history, from Azumah Nelson to Ike Quartey, Joseph Agbeko, and others, must not be overshadowed by tales of hardship. “If we don’t put structures in place, the next generation of fighters will also end up struggling. We need to act now,” he said.

His appeal comes at a time when the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has been under pressure to strengthen welfare systems for boxers, with many stakeholders calling for stronger partnerships between government, corporate sponsors, and the boxing fraternity.