Ghana’s undefeated featherweight boxer Holy Dorgbetor, known as “The Jaw Breaker,” praised the World Boxing Council (WBC) Grand Prix as a transformative experience after securing a spot in the tournament’s next round.
Competing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dorgbetor defeated Ukraine’s Oleksandr Solomennikov in the round of 32, becoming the sole Ghanaian qualifier among five national representatives at the event.
In an interview with Omashi TV’s The Big Fight Night on Friday, the 25-year-old described his inaugural international trip as “inspiring and educative,” highlighting contrasts between global and local boxing approaches. “Foreign boxers rely on speed, while we focus more on power. The media coverage there was also exceptional,” said Dorgbetor, who holds the IBF Africa Featherweight title with a 14-0-1 record.
The WBC Grand Prix, designed to showcase emerging talent, featured fighters from multiple nations. Dorgbetor credited his Accra-based coach, Laryea “Lion” Mensah, and management team Ace Power Promotions for their support. He aims to reach the June finals, stating, “This experience has motivated me to improve further.”
Other Ghanaian participants, including Shakul Samed Samuel Quaye and Enoch Allotey, lost their bouts, while Gabriel Coffie remains on standby for future editions. Dorgbetor, who trains at a gym behind Enterprise Insurance in Accra, reiterated his goal to become a world champion and “restore pride” to his native Volta Region.
Dorgbetor’s progress underscores Ghana’s enduring presence in international boxing, a sport historically significant to the nation. His success at the Grand Prix highlights the potential of regional talent when provided global platforms, though challenges persist in aligning training methodologies with evolving international standards. As Ghana seeks to reclaim its stature in boxing, athletes like Dorgbetor may bridge the gap between local grit and global competitiveness.
