Matchroom Boxing’s Historic Event in Africa
Matchroom Boxing is set to make history with its inaugural event on the African continent, taking place in Accra, Ghana on December 20th. The highlight of the evening will feature a light-heavyweight showdown between Dan Azeez and Craig “Spider” Richards, both of whom hail from Britain but share a connection to Nigeria through Azeez’s heritage.
Fighter Profiles
Azeez, aged 36, recently showcased his skills in Lagos, Nigeria, delivering an impressive stoppage against Sulaimon Adeosun in just four rounds. Craig Richards, 35, last appeared in the ring in March, where he defeated Padraig McCrory after eight rounds of action.
Event Lineup
The December card will also include promising bouts featuring rising talent such as Leo Atang, a teenage heavyweight from England, and Nishant Dev, an Indian super-welterweight who recently represented his country at the 2024 Olympics. Additionally, several local African competitors from Ghana are slated to participate, further enriching the event’s lineup.
Anthony Joshua’s Absence
However, fans of Anthony Joshua will be disappointed to learn that the former two-time heavyweight champion will not be part of the festivities in Ghana, despite his longstanding ambition to fight on African soil. Joshua, who also has Nigerian roots, has expressed a desire for this opportunity, but Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn indicated that for now, he will not make his anticipated return to the continent.
Hearn suggested that the December event might act as a precursor to a potential fight featuring Joshua in 2026, but that remains contingent on the success of this initial show.
There remains a glimmer of hope for Joshua’s fans, as there could be an opportunity for him to fight before the close of 2025, although time is running short given the limited events still planned for this year, including the highly anticipated rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn in London on November 15.
Looking Forward
As for the Ghana event, Hearn expressed enthusiasm, emphasizing the passionate fanbase in Africa.
“We know the passion of the African fight fans is right up there with the most fervent in the world. It promises to be a very special evening in Accra,”
Meanwhile, Azeez reflected on the significance of the fight, viewing it as a celebration of their South London roots and the progress of boxing from the area on an international stage.
