Former WBO Bantamweight champion Alfred ‘Cobra’ Kotey laid to rest in USA
The Burial Service and Funeral Rites of former WBO Bantamweight champion, Alfred Kotey aka ‘Cobra’ was held in Accra, Ghana at the Bukom Boxing Arena last Saturday.
Rev. Father Emmanuel Tagoe of the Holy Trinity and Rev. Dr. Partey Okumador, ICGC, Akoko Foto, Dansoman were the officiating ministers at the solemn, but well attended memorable event.
The Minister of Youth & Sports was represented by the PRO and chief accountant of the Ministry.
Boxing ring officials, (United Boxing Coaches), promoters, managers, current, old and some juvenile boxers were present.
While the service was going on proceeding happening in far away Bronx, New York, USA, where he was buried, with Rev Prof. Ebenezer Annor of the Trinity Presbyterian Church officiated was monitored live.
The 52 year old boxing whiz kid was one of the nation’s finest boxers. He represented Ghana at the 1988 Olympic Games in South Korea, and robbed of a medal due to injury.
Known to be one of the most skillful boxers, he defeated Rafael DelValle of Puerto Rico on 30th July 1994 to win the WBO title in London. He also won the Commonwealth, World Boxing Federation (WBF) Inter Continental Lightweight titles.
Alfred Kotey’s demise occurred on Tuesday, June 30 in the United States.
Reports indicate Ghana’s fifth world title winner was unwell for some months, and on life support until his death.
He left behind a wife and four children; Derrick, Darius, Darling and Deborah.
By Sammy Heywood Okine