Business Mogul Ibrahim Mahama Gifts Toyota Fortuner to Azumah Nelson

Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama has honoured celebrated boxing legend Azumah Nelson with a brand-new Toyota Fortuner and an undisclosed cash gift, in recognition of his exceptional legacy and lifelong contributions to sports in Ghana.

The emotional presentation took place on June 16, 2025, at Mr Mahama’s office, during a courtesy visit by a high-profile delegation. The group included Sharaf Mahama, CEO of Legacy Rise Sports and son of former President John Dramani Mahama, as well as Anthony Joshua, the British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion.

Fresh from their participation in the Battle of the Beasts boxing showcase held at the Bukom Boxing Arena on June 13, the delegation had earlier paid a visit to President Mahama at the Jubilee House, before making their way to thank Ibrahim Mahama for his support of the event and the sport.

In a heartfelt speech during the presentation, Mr Mahama referred to Azumah Nelson as “arguably Africa’s greatest boxer”, praising not just his unmatched achievements in the ring but also his continued involvement in youth empowerment and the development of boxing in Ghana. The moment the keys to the new Toyota Fortuner were handed over was met with admiration and applause from all present.

Clearly moved, Azumah Nelson expressed deep gratitude for the surprise gesture.

“I am grateful to you, Ibrahim Mahama, and to Sharaf Mahama for this big surprise. I didn’t expect this at all,” Nelson said. “I’m just supporting my son Sharaf, who has shown great interest in promoting the sport I love.”

Azumah Nelson, a three-time world champion and national icon, continues to play a pivotal role in mentoring young athletes and promoting boxing initiatives across the country. His dedication to the sport and his community has earned him a place not only in Ghana’s sporting history but also in the hearts of many Ghanaians.

Also in attendance were members of Anthony Joshua’s team, sports entrepreneur Yaw Sakyi Afari of RITE Sports Services, businessman Henry Quarshie—a close associate of Azumah Nelson—as well as representatives from Legacy Rise Sports and friends of Mr Mahama.

Known for his generous contributions to education, sports, and infrastructure, Ibrahim Mahama, founder of Engineers and Planners and Dzata Cement Limited, continues to make a significant impact through philanthropy. His latest gesture reaffirms his commitment to uplifting Ghanaian sports legends and promoting the next generation of talent.

The event capped off a historic boxing weekend in Accra, as the Battle of the Beasts brought together top-tier athletes, celebrities, and international figures in a celebration of Ghana’s boxing heritage and future. With increased private-sector involvement and iconic figures like Azumah Nelson still active in the sport, Ghana’s boxing scene appears to be on a promising path forward.