Grooms

Some stars are born, others are made but Joseph Antwi, known in the ring as Junior Bazooka, might be both. Named by Ghana’s legendary ‘Bazooka’ himself, Ike Quartey, Antwi says the name fuels his relentless power and confidence whenever he steps into the ring.

Appearing on The Big Fight Night on Omashi TV, Antwi expressed gratitude to Ike Quartey for his inspiration and to Dr. Ofori Asare, head coach at Wisdom Boxing Gym, whose mentorship has shaped many young boxers into disciplined, respected professionals.

Wisdom Boxing Gym has earned a reputation as a true “gym of champions,” having produced talents like the Bastie brothers, former Cruiserweight champion Haruna Mohammed, and Theophilus Kpakpo Allotey — the current WBO Africa Bantamweight champion, and National and UBO Africa Super Flyweight champion. Allotey’s recent rise to No. 9 on the IBO rankings and No. 10 in the IBF Intercontinental shows the gym’s steady climb on the world stage.

According to Dr. Ofori Asare, it takes more than talent to become a global contender: “It’s about negotiations, strategy, and disciplined training,” he explained. At Wisdom, boxers train like they’re in both a home and a school — combining discipline, hard work, and a commitment to mastering the craft.

“For Joseph Antwi (1-0-0), he is a special project,” Dr. Asare shared. “We’ve produced champions in lower weight classes, but now we’re aiming to make history in the heavyweight division — and he’s the one we’re grooming to be a world beater.”

With Allotey’s success lighting the way, Dr. Asare is confident others will follow: “We’re taking it step by step, but we’re determined to get there.”

On August 23, boxing fans can see the gym’s rising stars in action at the Bukom Boxing Arena on the Bishop Promotions bill, featuring Antwi, Clinton, Haruna, Allotey and more.

By Sammy Heywood Okine