Legacy Rise Promotions was a success yesterday, but the most important victory was the support of the Ghanaian fans who filled the Bukom Boxing Arena to cheer for their locals.
Research on boxing in Ghana indicates a rise in its popularity, particularly among younger audiences, projected for 2025. In the past, notable promoters like Box Office Sports Promotions, led by Alex Ntiamoah-Boakye, have played a significant role in this growth by organizing exciting local fights. These events featured prominent boxers such as Bukom Banku, Ayitey Powers, and Bastie Samir, along with more recent fighters like Robert Quaye, Michael Ansah, and Sheriff Quaye.
Despite some events offering free entry, it still requires significant effort for a boxing fan to leave their homes and families to attend a match. This is particularly true given the recent rise in hooliganism that has affected our boxing scene.
It was truly a pleasure to see how the Ghanaian boxing fans braved the downpour to support the boxers, even singing throughout the event.
Such enthusiasm should be encouraged and rewarded if we want to build a robust boxing market and economy.
However, it’s important to note that Ghana is not yet prepared to enter the pay-per-view market, a topic for another day.
Ghana must now consolidate its gains and build upon them. It was refreshing to see Anthony Joshua, Amir Khan, and King Promise honoring the event with their presence, following, and brand.
Currently, many industry players have adopted the PUSH strategy, which appears to be working well, evidenced by strong fan support. However, the transition to this strategy must be executed carefully and correctly.
The next phase will be the PULL strategy, which is expected to lead to a pay-per-view model in the medium to long term, although this goal is still some distance away.
Ghana boxing Fans sings through the downpour at the Bukom Arena
It is essential to address fundamental questions such as target market, boxer marketability, branding, and advertising right from the start. In an industry where active boxing people are often overshadowed during major events in favor of mainstream football personalities who contribute little to the sport of boxing, it’s clear that there are significant issues that need to be resolved.
You can not build on a weak foundation. This is just the beginning of my series, so stay tuned for more updates.
My name is Samuel Ofosuhene, but you can call me Sammy Ofosuhene. Let the debate continue!