In a heartfelt gesture recognizing decades of sporting excellence, Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama on June 16, 2025, presented Ghanaian boxing legend Azumah Nelson with a brand-new Toyota Fortuner and an undisclosed amount of money.
The surprise, according a Graphic Online report, took place at Mahama’s office, where Nelson was joined by a high-profile delegation that included Sharaf Mahama, CEO of Legacy Rise Sports and son of President John Dramani Mahama and British-Nigerian heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. The group, having recently featured in the “Battle of the Beasts” boxing spectacle at the Bukom Boxing Arena, had earlier paid a courtesy call on President Mahama at Jubilee House before stopping by to thank Ibrahim Mahama for his unwavering support.
Mahama described Azumah Nelson as “arguably Africa’s greatest boxer,” stating the gift was a symbol of appreciation for the three-time world champion’s lasting impact on boxing and youth development in Ghana. As friends, dignitaries, and associates looked on, Mahama handed over the keys in what became a powerful moment of admiration and celebration.
“I am grateful to you, Ibrahim Mahama, and to Sharaf Mahama for this big surprise. I didn’t expect this at all,” said a visibly moved Azumah Nelson. “I am just supporting my son Sharaf who has shown great interest in promoting the sport I love.”
The emotional tribute underscored Nelson’s legacy, not just as a global boxing legend, but as a national hero who continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of athletes through his ongoing work in boxing promotion and community engagement.
The gathering included notable figures such as Anthony Joshua’s team members, sports entrepreneur Yaw Sakyi Afari of RITE Sports Services, businessman Henry Quarshie, one of Nelson’s closest allies, along with associates of Legacy Rise Sports and close friends of Ibrahim Mahama.
Founder of Engineers and Planners and Dzata Cement Limited, Ibrahim Mahama has become widely recognized for his philanthropic initiatives spanning education, infrastructure, and sports development.
The “Battle of the Beasts” event, which captured international attention thanks to Joshua’s appearance, has been hailed as a landmark moment for Ghanaian boxing and part of broader efforts to elevate the sport’s global standing from within the country.
