After months of innuendo regarding boxing’s Los Angeles 2028 outlook, the global Olympic body announced on Wednesday that it will provisionally back the American-based federation as the worldwide governing authority, leaving the IBA in limbo.

The International Olympic Committee broke the news, which makes the recently created World Boxing the one in charge of internationally surveying and organising the sport, midday after a remote meeting by its Executive Board, thus severing once and for all its remaining ties with the International Boxing Association, who had been stripped of its official recognition back in April 2023.

The newly recognised federation -albeit provisionally- emerged coincidentally, and after almost two years of intense jostling for boxing’s governance throne, seems to have landed a definitive punch to the long-standing ruling body formerly known as AIBA, who originally fell in disarray in 2019 because of financial, governance and ethical concerns.

With the IOC pressing matters and the sport at risk of being ousted from the Olympic programme before the Los Angeles Summer Games take place in less than four years, the Thomas Bach-led organisation pointed to World Boxing’s growing list of affiliated national federations, up to 78 from the required minimum of 75, as proof that the American association had been able to get its act together in time for the next Olympic cycle.

"The assessment concluded that World Boxing has continued to make progress regarding the identified areas of consideration in order to be recommended for IOC Provisional Recognition as the IF within the Olympic Movement governing the sport of boxing at world level," the IOC’s statement read.

While the Russian-based IBA has not released an official count of its member associations, over 120 did attend its last official congress in Dubai in December. Earlier Wednesday, the organisation’s president, Umar Kremlev,lashed out on social media at Bach, a frequent target of his criticism, for not allowing Russian and Belarusan athletes to compete representing their respective countries in the Olympics.

The IOC detailed that World Boxing had provided evidence that 62 per cent of the fighters and 58 per cent of the boxing medallists at Paris 2024, whose boxing tournament was organised by the Olympic body itself, are now affiliated to national federations that are members of the US-based organisation that Boris Van der Vorst presides.

World Boxing President Boris Van der Vorst. GETTY IMAGES

Regarding governance criteria, World Boxing "has put in place the structure and documentation for good governance (including the World Boxing Code of Ethics, Conflict of Interest Policy and declaration form, Anti-Corruption Policy, and Finance and Audit Committee Terms of Reference), and has demonstrated strong willingness and effort in enhancing good governance and implementation, to be compliant with the appropriate standards", the IOC considered.

In a separate statement, the newly-approved federation celebrated the decision. "This is a very significant day for everyone connected with the sport of boxing in the Olympic Movement. Keeping its place at the Olympic Games is absolutely critical to the future of our sport at every level, from the grassroots to the highest echelons of professional boxing, and this decision by the IOC takes us one step closer to our objective of seeing boxing restored to the Olympic programme," Van der Vorst said.

The IOC grants provisional recognition to World Boxing as the International Federation governing boxing at the world level.

The details⬇️ https://t.co/3XZF3470LK pic.twitter.com/v1JUOpHuY2

— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) February 26, 2025

The head of the association’s Olympic Commission is none other than Kazakhstan’s former two-time unified world middleweight champion and 2004 Athens Games silver medallist Gennadiy Golovkin, who considered that "receiving provisional Olympic recognition from the IOC is an important achievement and demonstrates that our sport is on the right path."

The IBA’s own path seems now more in doubt than ever as the association that has backed prize money initiatives, among others, is still very much in touch with the amateur boxing world but struggles to climb back in the Olympic ring after being left out in Paris 2024 and, now apparently, overtaken by World Boxing with LA28 on the horizon. Kremlev, who has challenged the sanctions in court and questioned the rival federation’s financial muscle, was hoping that March’s IOC presidential elections would open a new door for reinstatement, but at the moment will have to battle to get off the corner and counter with some punches of his own.

"Today’s decision by the IOC is an important milestone, however everyone connected with World Boxing understands that being part of the Olympic Movement is a privilege and a responsibility and not a right. There is still a lot of work to do, and everyone is as committed as ever to continuing to work together and doing everything within our power to deliver a better future for our sport and ensuring that boxing remains at heart of the Olympic Movement," Van der Vorst concluded.

By Alex Oller 

Greater Accra, Ghana – [26/02/25] – A major controversy has erupted over the selection process for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the Greater Accra Region which began on the 20/02/25 as a result of cancellation of the first committee chaired by the Regional Chairman of NDC. Allegations have surfaced that the vetting committee responsible for shortlisting candidates engaged in corrupt practices, reportedly accepting bribes while disregarding the qualifications, experience, and contributions of aspirants.

Sources close to the process claim that despite a large number of competent individuals submitting their credentials for consideration, the committee failed to thoroughly assess candidates’ CVs or acknowledge their hard work in the campaign that helped secure victory for the ruling party. Instead, it is alleged that financial inducements played a decisive role in determining which candidates were shortlisted for appointment.

A disgruntled party member, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed deep disappointment with the process. “Many of us worked tirelessly during the election campaign, believing that commitment and merit would be rewarded. Unfortunately, it appears money has become the main factor in the selection of MMDCEs, rather than competence and dedication,” the source stated.

The alleged corruption has sparked outrage among grassroots party members and stakeholders who believe that such practices undermine good governance and betray the principles of fairness and transparency. Calls for an independent investigation into the vetting committee’s activities are growing louder, with civil society organizations and political commentators urging authorities to address the claims urgently.

In Ayawaso East, for instance, reports indicate that certain candidates, whose names were initially omitted from the shortlist, resorted to hooliganism by storming the regional office with supporters to protest their exclusion. Despite this show of force, coupled with alleged bribery, they were eventually selected for the MMDCE positions. This incident has further fueled concerns about the integrity of the selection process and the undue influence of money and violence in political appointments.

If substantiated, these allegations could have significant political consequences, as they raise serious questions about the integrity of the appointment process. The ruling party has yet to issue an official response, but pressure is mounting for leadership to intervene and ensure a fair and transparent selection process for MMDCE appointments.

As the controversy unfolds, many are keenly watching to see whether the government will take decisive action to address the claims or risk losing public confidence in the integrity of its governance structures.

Source Sheikh Tophic

Highly respected former first vice president of the Ghana Boxing Authority Mr. Rabbon Dodoo has disclosed that it is time to reset Ghana Boxing for better results.

According to the former boxer and aide of ex-president of the Republic of Ghana, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings it is time for people to feel the real passion of the sport.

He said the creation of Sports and Recreation Ministry is in a direction to involve everyone into sports for Ghanaians to cultivate healthy living lifestyle.

He will feel comfortable working with the Minister to ensure swift and efficient effective implementation of strategies to improve Ghana Boxing.

Rabon Dodoo resigned from the board of the current GBA headed by Abraham Neequaye and he now feels in a better position to lead the Authority.

Meanwhile some boxers and coaches have already declared their support for him making the up coming GBA Elections very interesting.

Other presidential aspirants are Dr. Henry Manly-Spain,  Mr. Ivan Bruce Cudjoe, Nii Gonti Adjor 1 aka Nii Adama Addy, Emmanuel Addo,  Alex Ntiamoah Boakye and incumbent Abraham Neequaye.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Faruza Osman, the captain of the female national boxing team may miss the upcoming Women's World Boxing Tournament in Nis, Serbia.

The Ghana Army lady was involved in an accident while returning from a wedding causing her to have some sores and pains.

Narrating her unfortunate incident, she said sitting behind a motor bike has taught her many lessons and will advise herself.

According to Faruza, she is sad because she had trained for more than six weeks towards the world championship which has monetary rewards.

"I will miss the tournament but I pray that my colleagues will do well to enter the money and medal zone" she said.

She hinted that the accident has really affected her plans because it was another opportunity to gain some travelling experience in boxing after representing Ghana in Dakar, Senegal.

She appealed for support and sponsorship for the boxing teams and the Ghana Boxing Federation.

She noted that the female boxers are highly self motivated but it seems they have been neglected and hoped benevolent Ghanaians and NGOs will support them.

She thanked Alhaji Abdulai of Freight Consult for his recent gesture of supporting the team.

Meanwhile, Alhaji Dauda Fuseni, first vice president of the Ghana Boxing Federation has thanked Freight Consult and appealed to other individuals and companies to come to the aid of the Black Hitters.

He said this is the first time Ghana is taking part in the competition which is in its 14th edition.

He thanked the National Sports Authority for assurance of assistance for Ghana female boxers to display their God given talent.

The team list includes Trudy Manteaw, Perpetual Okaidja, Janet Acquah, Sarah Apaw, Jill Whyte, Elizabeth Jeffrey, Nancy Bamfo, Faith Afreh, Elizabeth Boakye and Lois Marie Asiedu.

However, only six would be going to the Championship due to financial constraints.

By Sammy Heywood Okine    

Alhaji Abdulai Issaka Pangasur, CEO of Freight Consult and a member of the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) on Tuesday presented some items to the Black Hitters, the national female boxing team as they prepare for the 2025 Women's World Boxing Championship in Nis. Serbia.

The donation was made on his behalf by his brother, Ibrahim Issaka who said they have been monitoring the training of the female boxers and want to inspire them to give off their best to make themselves and the nation proud.

The items include cartons of mineral water, fish oil, energy drink, vitamins, tee shirts and an undisclosed amount of money.

Faruza Osman, skipper of the Black Hitters thanked Freight Consult and appealed to other companies to come to their aid.

She promised that they will go to Serbia and do their best.

Coach Rasheed Williams aka Believer said they have good female boxers who are will to perform but the motivation is lacking and also urged corporate Ghana to support the national female boxing team.

Alhaji Dauda Fuseni, first vice president of the Ghana Boxing Federation commended Freight Consult and their executives for the gesture and assured that the will try to excel at the 14th Women's World Boxing Championship.

Present were Solomon Otoo aka Mangola, the second vice president of the Federation and coach Lartekwei Lartey.

The Women's Boxing Championship is coming off from 8th to 17th March, 2025.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Former Ghanaian international and Hearts of Oak football player Sebastian Barnes, acquired seven acres of land about two years ago in Asutuare for a project he intends to undertake to support the youth in their chosen career of football.

This project, according to the former Ghanaian international, would be an  incorporation of the many ideas, philosophies and experience he has acquired over the years in Europe during and after his playing career.

After obtaining the land, he went ahead and paid the full amount of GHC 140,000 in instalments to the seller, one Mr. Francis Ntem, also known as Paapa, of CS FRANDDOS LIMITED.

He then proceeded to start work on the land, and fenced it at a cost of GHC 260,000, only to start receiving threats from land guards purported to be working for another family, who are also claiming ownership of the same property. On a few occasions, he was chased off the land, by the matchet-wielding land guards, sometimes with death threats. He then reported the matter at the Asutuare Police Station, where both the commander and the crime officer tried to mediate in the matter but to no avail.

Per our last checks, the crime officer advised Sebastian Barnes to proceed with work on the property, and revert to the police should the matter persist. But Barnes declined, siting fear, and more threats from the land guards due to the scary nature of the situation, the FIFA Under 17 gold winner at Italia ‘91 and silver medal winner in Japan ’93 decided to withdraw his interest in the said property, and has since then been asking Mr. Francis Ntem to return all monies pay for the land.

This has now turned into a tussle, with Francis Ntem of CS FRANDDOS LIMITED dragging his feet on this. For the former Hearts of Oak defender, all he wants is to give back to society to help the youth, but if he has to go through this  turmoil and be issued with death threats, then he prefers to protect his family and his hard-earned money (investment).

The tussle between Francis Ntem and Sebastian Barnes rages on…and the earlier they both smoke the peace pipe on this matter, the better it shall be for all. Stay tune as we follow this story.

Source Prince Annang

Pioneers of Breaking, the African Breaking Academy is moving to the grassroots to tap new talent for the interesting sport.

Their current initiative of organising the monthly league for kids and youth (students) between ages of 6 years to 16 years was very successful and yielded results as Emerald Tetteh and Emmanuel Mensah stole the show at the grassroots talent haunt.

The first exercise at the Nima Mamprobi Community Learning Centre last Saturday attracted about 50 participants out of which 10 raw talents (including  the duo) were chosen for the next progression class.

According to founder and CEO of African Breaking Academy, B boy Lyricx aka Nana Tufour Okai, many lessons have been learnt and many to be taught so he was glad with the attendance and motivation by some guests who showed appreciation.

Some of extra curriculum activities supported by the French Embassy in Ghana are Beat boxing, DJing, graffiti and Breaking dancing.

He said Ghana is much respected in sports and the Breaking world and the new class and generation must prove that they can do it  to the highest global level.

He noted that Breaking is part of the next Youth Olympic Games which is coming to Africa for the first time and Ghana must represent in many sports.

"Breaking is part and we are preparing feverishly, we are very serious and want to create something memorable,  we are working very hard" he stated.

Breaking is a dance sport which the youth are so much interested. It draws large crowd.

Athletes must be devoted, dedicated, disciplined and daring to win. It is sport so they must exhibit love, peace, friendship and unity.

Breaking is a style of hip-hop dance in which soloists perform acrobatic moves that often involve touching various parts of the body (such as the back or head) to the ground: breakdancing competition involve one-on-one battles.

Breakdancing officially made its Olympic Games debut in at Paris 2024. It is going to feature at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The Breaking Federation of Ghana has started preparing for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games to be held in Dakar. Senegal.

President of the Federation, Nana Tufour Okai aka B boy Lyricx said they are scouting the athletes straight from the grassroots and have discovered some talents who are under ten years of age.

He revealed that the youth and kids now know about Breaking and the Federation is working hard to gather more people who are interested.

"Our goal is to go out there to represent Ghana and shine. We are optimistic of a good performance because our athletes are committed, enthusiastic and passionate. They love what they are doing "he expressed.

The Breaking Federation has instituted a monthly programme where the practitioners meet to share ideas and skills as well as practice together.

Breaking which was introduced as a sport and entertainment programme and event in 2018 missed the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

However, Nana Okai stressed that after losing the chance to go to France, they must go to Senegal, because the Federation has been working very hard and he has also been moving round the African continent engaging other stakeholders.

The training is taking place at the Nima Mamobi Community Library / Learning Center where 10 talents out of 50 were selected. 

He expressed that Ghana has catch up very fast as the awareness has been created and now more teenagers are training to participate.

Nana Tufour Okai thanked the Communications and Media wing of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) for their massive support in terms of publicity and counselling.

The 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games (YOG) will take place in Dakar, Senegal from October 31 to November 13, 2026. The event will be the fourth Summer YOG and the first Olympic sporting event in Africa.

There would be 151 events in 25 sports for the competition program.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Accra, Ghana – SportnewsDotCom, a leading digital media and content powerhouse, has officially launched Ghana Talk News, a dynamic news platform dedicated to delivering accurate, timely, and in-depth coverage of Ghana’s latest developments in news, sports, business, health, and entertainment.

The launch of Ghana Talk News marks a significant milestone in the country’s media landscape, setting a new standard for credible journalism and insightful reporting.

With the digital age rapidly transforming the way people consume news, the owners of Ghana Sports News(ghsportsnews.com), will position Ghana Talk News as the ultimate destination for real-time news updates. The platform leverages cutting-edge digital tools, investigative reporting, and experienced journalists to provide Ghanaians with the most trustworthy and engaging content.

From breaking political stories to exclusive interviews with industry leaders, Ghana Talk News ensures that readers are always informed about the most critical issues affecting Ghana and beyond.

Speaking on the launch, a spokesperson for SportsDotCom stated:

“We saw a gap in the digital news space in Ghana, where audiences craved accurate, engaging, and well-researched stories. With Ghana Talk News, we are not just delivering news; we are building a trusted media brand that prioritizes facts, fairness, and a deeper understanding of Ghana’s most pressing issues.”

With the rise of misinformation in digital media, ghanatalknews.com aims to set a benchmark for high-quality journalism, ensuring that its readers always get authentic and well-researched reports.

Source: Ghana Talk News