Emmanuel Lamptey Stops Ben Bazi
Ghana’s Emmanuel Lamptey produced a stunning first-round stoppage of Nigeria’s Ben Bazi at the Bukom Boxing Arena, highlighting a successful evening for Ghanaian Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) that could accelerate the sport’s growing popularity across West Africa.
The September 19 Global Warrior Champions event at the historic 4,000-capacity venue delivered on its promise of explosive entertainment, with Lamptey’s dominant performance against his Nigerian opponent serving as the night’s standout moment in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
The victory represented more than individual success, demonstrating Ghana’s emerging strength in MMA competition and validating the investment in developing local talent through organizations like the Ghana Mixed Martial Arts Association (Ghana MMA Association).
Reggie Rockstone, the Ghanaian music icon who hosted the evening, added star power to an event that organizer Jeff Taylor described as a “huge success” while announcing plans for another show in December, indicating sustained momentum for Ghana’s MMA development.
However, the evening produced mixed results for Ghanaian fighters, with experienced combatant Selorm Darko suffering a points defeat to the younger Edmund Akator, who secured what was described as “sweet revenge” in their encounter between representatives of Bhim Nation and Shatta Movement respectively.
The generational shift represented by Akator’s victory over the veteran Darko suggests Ghana’s MMA talent pool is developing depth across age groups, with younger fighters capable of competing effectively against more experienced opponents in high-pressure situations.
Darko’s gracious acceptance of defeat and display of sportsmanship provided a positive example of professional conduct that enhances MMA’s reputation as entertainment grows increasingly popular among Ghanaian sports fans seeking alternatives to traditional boxing and football.
The evening’s most disappointing result for home supporters came when Adom Nortey suffered an unexpected defeat to Nigerian opponent Sadiq Mohammed, demonstrating that West African MMA competition remains highly competitive across national boundaries.
Vice President of the Ghana Mixed Martial Arts Association Kwab Asamoah expressed satisfaction with the energy displayed throughout the evening, declaring that MMA “has come to stay” in Ghana’s sporting landscape.
His comments build on previous endorsements from National Sports Authority (NSA) Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, who praised Global Warrior Champions events following their May 3 show at the same venue.
Taylor’s acknowledgment of key sponsors including Twellium Ghana Ltd, Alisa Hotel, Decathlon, and Max TV highlights the commercial viability that attracts corporate investment in Ghana’s expanding MMA scene.
The successful sponsorship arrangements suggest sustainable financial foundations for continued event organization, crucial for developing consistent competition opportunities that allow Ghanaian fighters to gain experience against international opponents.
The Bukom Boxing Arena has emerged as the epicenter for Ghana’s growing MMA scene, hosting multiple Global Warrior Championships events throughout 2025, leveraging the venue’s intimate 4,000-seat capacity to create electric atmospheres for martial arts competition.
The arena’s transformation from boxing-focused facility to multi-combat sports venue reflects evolving fan preferences and Ghana’s adaptability in accommodating new sporting disciplines while maintaining connections to its rich boxing heritage.
Friday’s event concluded without major casualties, a crucial safety consideration as MMA continues gaining acceptance among Ghanaian sports authorities and fans who prioritize athlete welfare alongside entertainment value.
The absence of serious injuries demonstrates improved safety protocols and medical preparation that addresses concerns about MMA’s physical demands while maintaining the sport’s authentic competitive intensity.
Taylor’s December event announcement provides concrete evidence of MMA’s growing commercial viability in Ghana, with successful gate receipts and sponsor satisfaction creating conditions for regular competition that can develop local talent systematically.
The continued success of Global Warrior Champions events positions Ghana as a potential West African hub for MMA development, offering fighters from across the region opportunities to compete in well-organized, professionally managed competitions.