Ghana’s boxing community may be on the verge of a new era as seasoned promoter and businessman Ivan Bruce-Cudjoe, popularly known as IBC, has officially declared his intention to contest the presidency of the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA).
Speaking at a press conference in Accra, IBC announced his candidacy under the banner: ‘An Agenda for Change and Resetting the GBA.’He called on all stakeholders to rally behind a renewed commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, and expansion within Ghana’s struggling boxing sector.
“I have picked forms to run for the GBA Presidency, and as Ghana’s boxing industry stands at a crossroads, I am ready to lead us all into a new era of growth, professionalism, and global excellence,” he stated.
A Vision Rooted in Experience and Results
A respected figure in Ghana boxing circles, IBC is the founder of CABIC Promotions and Management, a boxing syndicate that has staged high-profile fights and developed talents for the global stage. His efforts earned him the SWAG Promoter of the Year Award in 2019. IBC also owns a fully equipped boxing gym designed to prepare athletes for international competition, further reinforcing his long-term commitment to the sport.
Expanding Boxing Beyond Accra
For decades, boxing development has been concentrated in Accra, leaving untapped talent across the country underserved. IBC aims to change this by partnering with the National Sports Authority (NSA) to build standard boxing gyms in all 16 regions of Ghana.
“It is my dream that future national champions will emerge from every region. We must decentralise boxing and give every young fighter a fair chance,” he said.
Empowering Ex-Boxers and Supporting Stakeholders
IBC’s manifesto includes a mentorship program for retired boxers, drawing on their experience to guide and train up-and-coming fighters. He also plans to organise Stakeholder Conferences and Workshops to directly address industry challenges and policy reforms.
“We cannot grow Ghana boxing without listening to the voices of our coaches, referees, promoters, and the boxers themselves,” IBC noted.
Welfare and Global Integration
A major highlight of his agenda is the establishment of a comprehensive welfare scheme for all boxing stakeholders. From active athletes to officials, IBC promises better protection and support systems. He also proposes the appointment of special envoys to strengthen international relations with boxing confederations, keeping Ghana competitive on the world stage.
A Four-Year Goal: Produce a World Champion
IBC’s campaign is not only about structural reform but also about delivering tangible results. His ambition is to produce a world-class champion within his first four-year term, leveraging both local infrastructure and global partnerships.
Running with a Team of Reformers
IBC also revealed that other respected names in Ghana boxing, including Ellis Afotey Quaye, Johny Gordon, and Gideon ‘Jingles’ Oyiadzo, have picked up nomination forms for various GBA executive positions. Together, they form Team IBC, a collective pushing for reform and unity.
A Call to Action
In his address, IBC thanked the current executives of the GBA for their contributions and respectfully called on incumbent president Abraham Kotei Neequaye to “hand over the baton” and allow a new leadership to take Ghana boxing forward.
“This is not a campaign of division. It’s about collaboration, growth, and progress. Let’s build a boxing authority that truly serves the people and produces champions for Ghana.”
IBC’s campaign is centred around inclusion, opportunity, and restoring Ghana’s once-dominant position in world boxing.
Join the Movement
As the GBA elections approach in June 2025, Ivan Bruce-Cudjoe is calling on all delegates and stakeholders to support his vision for a stronger, fairer, and globally competitive boxing industry.
“Together, let’s reset Ghana Boxing, and build an authority that champions its people and inspires the next generation.” He concluded.
By Peter Quao Adattor
