Boxing Fans Express Displeasure Against GBA Over Recent Events At Bukom Boxing Arena
Many boxing fans have expressed their sadness, anger and lose of trust in the Ghana Boxing Authority and some promotions outfits over recent occurrences at the Bukon Boxing Arena where bouts do not start on time and mostly end abruptly.
Some fans decide to throw objects into the ring, while others destroy seats, chairs and tables.
Mr. Nii Armah Attoh, a medical professional and sports enthusiast said he feels sad and ashamed because the same impatience and indiscipline problem has been occurring and it is getting worse.
He said boxing is a sport and entertainment but now it is getting to become something else that would discourage fans from going to watch boxing at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
He observed that security and safety is a problem while the time for closing is not good.
He questioned why there are so many bouts on a bill and advised promoters and the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBS) to sit down and find solutions to the petty problems.
He suggested that whenever the Arena is full, there should be stoppage of ticket sales than packing over 9,000 people in a venue that is supposed to take a capacity of 4,000.
“We love the sport, but if the GBA cannot control or be firm in getting the right things done, we will advise ourselves and stop coming because we have families at home” he said.
Mr. Israel Atsu Kove, an engineer plus boxing fan said ‘Atsiagbeshie’ or arranged bouts are spoiling the image of Ghana Boxing. He expressed that some journeymen who are not prepared come and waste the time and eyes of fans, so they should be identified and banned.
He also appealed to the leadership of the GBA to maintain discipline and order at the Arena.
“We love boxing that is why we can discuss, debate and determine what is good for Ghana Boxing, I think the leadership is loose” he said.
Naa Aku Allotey, a trader / female fan said she loves boxing but she never feels safe at the Arena and prefer quality than quantity, so the fees at the gate can be increased to allow only a category of people with class who can afford to attend. “We come to the Arena to have fun and we need adequate security and protection else we shall stop watching boxing to save our lives” she said.
Another fan, Mr. Leslie Addo said the referees must be allowed to work and take their decisions than other officers interfering in their results. He said it can create chaos because people will certainly not understand.
He said boxers fight in the ring so results must be declared in the ring for everyone to see and not the boardroom.
Mr.Saban Sabato, another keen boxing fan said Ghana has very good boxers but it is a long time the nation got a world champion because the boxers are not supported, he called on the GBA to do the right things if they want a world champion.
He stated that the new promoters must be educated in areas where they lack knowledge and experience, especially security.
Apart from the Boxing League spearheaded by Imax and other sponsors, other promotions like Box Office, Cabic, Shiatse and Wisdom are doing well and should not be discouraged.
By Sammy Heywood Okine