The Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has praised the organizers and athletes who participated in the thrilling Global Warrior Champions Night of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), held on May 3 at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
Describing the event as “explosive and full of action,” Mr. Ampofo Ankrah declared that MMA has firmly established its place in Ghana’s sporting landscape. “I believe MMA has come to stay,” he stated, lauding the growing popularity and competitive edge of the sport.
Despite the event not drawing a full house, the atmosphere was electric, with fighters from across the continent—Ghana, Nigeria, DR Congo, Togo, and Senegal—displaying raw strength, determination, and warrior spirit.
One of the most talked-about moments of the night featured Ghanaian rap legend Reggie Rockstone. At 61, the pioneering musician stunned fans with his agility, technique, and endurance in a match against William Adom, proving that age is no barrier in the arena of combat sports.
In the women’s flyweight (56kg) championship, Ghana’s African Games bronze medalist Janet Acquah was defeated by Kenya’s Felista Mugo in a gripping contest. Senegal’s Youssoupha Wade also triumphed over Adjitche ATA Gbami Paulin in the welterweight division.
Other bouts included a win by Cedreick Kalenga of DR Congo against Ghana’s Charles Lamptey in the bantamweight category, and a spirited performance by Nigeria’s Emmanuel Christian, who ultimately fell to DR Congo’s Christopher Moly. A scheduled lightweight clash between Ghana’s Jonathan Lamptey and Nigeria’s Victor Dooga did not take place.
Jeff Taylor, promoter and President of the Ghana Mixed Martial Arts Association, expressed optimism about Ghana’s potential as a hub for MMA and combat sports. “MMA can place Ghana on the global map not only as a venue for top-tier events but also as a leader in sports business and entertainment,” he noted.
Taylor emphasized that MMA is a dynamic blend of boxing, wrestling, judo, karate, kickboxing, and other martial arts, offering both fighters and fans a rich, multifaceted experience.
He extended heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the event’s success. “Special appreciation goes to our fighters, sponsors, media partners, production crew, vendors, and fans. Your belief in what we are building means the world to us. Together, we are not only delivering world-class events but also shaping the future of combat sports in Ghana and beyond,” said Taylor, who also serves as Executive Director of Global Warrior Champions.
