Boxing legend Azumah Nelson honoured by Ibrahim Mahaman

Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama has honoured legendary boxer Azumah Nelson with a brand-new Toyota Fortuner and an undisclosed amount of money. The surprise gift was in recognition of Nelson’s remarkable impact on boxing and his dedication to mentoring the next generation.

The presentation happened on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Mr Mahama’s office in Accra. It followed a courtesy visit from a delegation that included Sharaf Mahama, CEO of Legacy Rise Sports and son of President John Dramani Mahama, along with British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua.

The delegation had just participated in the Battle of the Beasts boxing event at the Bukom Boxing Arena on June 13. After visiting President Mahama at the Jubilee House, they called on Ibrahim Mahama to thank him for supporting the event and boxing development in Ghana.

During the visit, Mr Mahama praised Azumah Nelson as “arguably Africa’s greatest boxer.” He said the gift was not only to celebrate Nelson’s achievements in the ring but also to appreciate his ongoing support for sports and youth development. In an emotional moment, he handed over the keys to the car in front of dignitaries, friends, and sports associates.

A surprised and grateful Azumah Nelson responded: “I am grateful to you, Ibrahim Mahama, and to Sharaf Mahama for this big surprise. I didn’t expect this at all. I am just supporting my son Sharaf who has shown great interest in promoting the sport I love.”

Present at the ceremony were members of Anthony Joshua’s team, sports entrepreneur Yaw Sakyi Afari of RITE Sports, businessman Henry Quarshie, friends of Ibrahim Mahama, and associates from Legacy Rise Sports.

Ibrahim Mahama, founder of Engineers and Planners and Dzata Cement Limited, is known for supporting national development, especially in education, sports, and infrastructure. His latest gesture continues his efforts to celebrate Ghanaian icons and strengthen the sports community.

The Battle of the Beasts event, which drew major attention with Anthony Joshua’s involvement, aimed to showcase Ghanaian boxing talent and boost the sport’s international image.