Seth Gyimah aka Freezy Macbones of Ghana defeated Nigeria’s Godday Appah aka ‘Zodsolo’ on points to become the new WBO Africa Light Heavyweight champion on Thursday night in Lagos, Nigeria.
Gyimah won via judges’ majority decision on points, 95-83, 95-93, 94-94 ending the bigger Appah’s reign as champion. Two Ghanaians were among the ring officials, Referee Mensah Akakpo and Judge Roger Barnor.
The build up to the fight was fierce and the bout lived up to its billing as booth boxers sold out rounds of powerful and solid action.
The World Boxing Organization-WBO Africa Light heavyweight championship on October 1 was part of the Nigerian Independence Day celebrations in Lagos and was presented by Ezekiel Adamu’s Balmoral Group.
After the bout another Nigerian UK based Dan Azeez challenged Freezy Macbones and he agreed to fight again in December.
Macbones said he could not believe his performance before an away fans and he was just happy to deliver and bring home the title at 37 years, making him one of the oldest champions.
He started boxing at an advanced age of 27 and many people thought he could not make it, but with determination and hard work, he has won a major title.
He thanked all his fans in Kumasi, Accra and overseas for their prayers and support which has given him the sweet victory and glory.
Coach (Naval Officer) Benard Nartey of the Ghana Armed Forces Boxing Team who was part of Team Gyimah predicted a win and he is so proud that he has also produced a champion.
In another fight on the evening, David Tagoe of Ghana lost to high riding Nigeria’s Yusuf Adisa Adeniji by unanimous decision. The eight-round featherweight bout took place at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
By Sammy Heywood Okine