Former Sports Minister Nii Lante Vanderpuye believes Ghana is more likely to achieve global success through boxing than football.
He pointed out the nation’s struggles in football, notably the Black Stars’ inability to secure a major trophy since their 1982 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory.
In contrast, Vanderpuye highlighted boxing as a historical strength for Ghana, citing legendary world champions like Azumah Nelson and David Kotey, who significantly raised the country’s profile in international sports.
He sees potential for growth, particularly with emerging talented boxers from northern Ghana.
“We have the potential to become a much better sports nation through boxing than football,” he told JoySports, emphasizing the natural physical attributes of fighters from the northern regions.
He noted that while these boxers possess inherent strength, they need the right knowledge, skills, and techniques to maximize their potential.
“When you have someone who is passionate, and you equip them with knowledge and technique to complement their natural strength, they become extraordinary,” Vanderpuye remarked.
Despite the challenges facing boxing in Ghana—such as the absence of a world champion since Richard Commey’s loss to Teofimo Lopez in 2019 and no boxing representation at the 2024 Olympic Games—Vanderpuye remains hopeful that with adequate investment and support, boxing can once again elevate Ghana on the global stage.
