Black Rockets punch ticket to finals in African Youth Boxing Championship

All three members of Ghana’s national youth boxing team, the Black Rockets, have powered their way into the finals of the 2025 African Youth Boxing Championship in Conakry, Guinea, setting the stage for a thrilling medal showdown on Sunday, 25 May.

The young pugilists – Mathias Ashitey (51kg), Desmond Pappoe (75kg), and George Dowuona (54kg) – will each battle for gold after dominant performances in their semi-final bouts.

Dowuona secured his spot in spectacular fashion, forcing a first-round referee stoppage (RSC) against his opponent on Thursday, 22 May.

Meanwhile, Pappoe cruised into the finals with a walkover after an emphatic 5-0 unanimous decision in his preliminary fight.

Ashitey had already booked his place earlier in the tournament, outclassing his Guinean rival with another 5-0 clean sweep.

Under the guidance of coach Joseph Martey, Ghana’s rising stars have delivered standout performances at the weeklong championship, which runs from 20 to 25 May.

The finals promise high drama as the Black Rockets aim to bring home continental glory.

Boxing fans across the country and beyond will be eagerly watching as the nation’s brightest young talents step into the ring for their shot at history.