Retired Ghanaian boxer Michael Nii Ayitey Okine, widely known as Ayitey Powers, credits boxing with shaping his identity and achievements.
Powers stated the sport elevated him to significant platforms and earned him profound respect, expressing no regrets about his career path. He highlighted the unique honour of hearing the Ghana National Anthem played before his international bouts as a defining experience.
Powers, who serves as President of the Voice of Ghana Professional Boxers Association, recounted his journey starting as an amateur before progressing to national and international levels. He emphasized his current focus on boxing promotion as a way of giving back to the sport that defined him. Powers acknowledged the significant financial losses incurred during his first two promotional ventures but remains committed to the business, appealing for corporate sponsorship to support boxing’s potential as major entertainment.
Reflecting on his difficult initiation at Wisdom Boxing Gym under Coach Dr. Asare, Powers described enduring a severe beating on his first day. Inspired by figures like Stoner Jones and Ablor Sowah, he persevered, eventually qualifying for the national Black Bombers team before turning professional. Powers retired after 48 professional fights, securing 22 victories, with his initial win against Joshua Okine proving a key motivator.
The former boxer advised rising local talents to prove themselves against Ghana’s best before seeking opportunities abroad. Powers noted the high level of professionalism and better remuneration in boxing circuits like the UK, USA, Asia, and Australia, singling out Australia as his favourite international fighting destination. He commended Sharaf Mahama and Legacy Rise Sports for their recent successful boxing event, expressing hope to stage similar quality shows for Ghanaian fans.
Regarding the resignation of the Ghana Boxing Authority President, Powers offered limited comment, stating it was a personal decision. He stressed the importance of selecting a new leader who actively listens to stakeholders, recognizing boxing as a serious enterprise requiring collaborative management for progress. Powers underscored the necessity of capable leadership for the sport’s advancement in Ghana.
