Nearly 20 years after his last exhibition bout, legendary boxer Azumah Nelson will step back into the ring for a historic event that aims to inspire youth in sports.
The three-time former world champion will compete against Irchad Razaaly, the ambassador of the European Union, in an exhibition match intended to highlight how sports can influence youths for the better.
The “Diplo-Rumble” event, which is part of the annual Europe Month celebrations, will showcase the strength of the cooperation between Ghana and the European Union.
The Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra will host the Diplo-Rumble, which brings together amateur fighters, government officials, boxing enthusiasts, and diplomats. Tickets for the event are priced at GHC 5, with all proceeds going toward purchasing equipment for young boxers.
Azumah Nelson demonstrates his dedication to athletics as a vehicle for empowerment, especially for youth, by collaborating with the European Union. Taking part in this event is a potent way to show support for one another and to emphasize the beneficial effects that sports can have on both individuals and communities.
At a face-off event in Accra, the EU Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Irchad Razaaly, said “Boxing is a sport that requires discipline, dedication, and, above all, mutual respect. It is a sport that transcends language, culture, and nationality, allowing individuals from all walks of life to come together and compete on a level playing field.”
“The European Union acknowledges the ability of sports to dismantle barriers and give all those who demonstrate talent and dedication a sense of empowerment.” For this reason, we are collaborating with Azumah Nelson and the Ghana Boxing Federation to empower Ghana’s gifted young and advance sports diplomacy. Our 2024 Europe Month events, which are centred on youth and skills, will feature this event as a highlight, he continued.
“Zoom Zoom” Azumah “I am a firm believer in the power of sports diplomacy,” Nelson added. I have witnessed firsthand during my career the amazing power boxing has to unite people, promote understanding, and advance peace.
“As a proud ambassador of boxing, I am passionate about using this sport as a platform for promoting dialogue and creating opportunities for our younger generations. Sports helps to break down barriers, and build bridges.”