Awumey Nelson has issued a bold challenge to fellow unbeaten heavyweight Joseph Antwi, setting the stage for a potentially explosive all-Ghanaian showdown.
Nelson (3-0), who trains at the Bronx Boxing Club, did not hold back when he called out Antwi, stating that their rivalry dates back to their amateur boxing days. According to Nelson, he was the superior fighter back then, and he believes the result will be the same now that they are both professionals.
“I used to handle him easily during our amateur days; he was like my son,” Nelson said. “Now that we are both professionals, I want to knock him out so bad that he will have to be carried out of the ring.”
The challenge is directed at Joseph Antwi, who also boasts a perfect record of four wins from four bouts. Known in boxing circles as “Junior Bazooka,” Antwi has been the most active heavyweight in the country lately. He trains at the Wisdom Boxing Gym under the guidance of Coach Dr. Ofori Asare, a gym known for shaping young talents who dream of fame and fortune.
Antwi takes his ring name from the legendary former WBA Lightweight Champion Ike “Bazooka” Quartey. Inspired by the great champion, Antwi believes he has what it takes to rise through the ranks and win a world title.
Both boxers come from established gyms, and contests between popular fighters from these stables always draw large crowds. The contrast in styles would also make for an interesting battle, as the tall Nelson would have to deal with the shorter but quick and smart-punching Antwi.
For both boxers, this fight would be a real test. The winner would likely put himself in line for a shot at the national heavyweight title. That belt is currently held by Osumanu Haruna, popularly known as “Saabo.”
Saabo recently fought for the WBO Africa Heavyweight title on New Year’s Eve in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. He lost that bout to Frank Shagembe after suffering a hand injury in the third round, which forced him to retire. A win over a fellow unbeaten contender could be just what either Nelson or Antwi needs to step into the ring with Saabo next.