Confusion erupted at the Bukom Boxing Arena during the highly anticipated bout between Ernest Akushey, also known as 'Baubali,' and Elvis Ahorgah, aka Soldier Boxer.
The match, expected to determine the National Super Middleweight champion, came to an abrupt end due to a dispute over boxing gloves.
The boxing match, the first organized by Ayitey Powers Productions on June 29, 2024, was sold out to capacity, with fans eager to witness the fight after weeks of verbal exchanges between the two boxers.
Both boxers started the bout with a good exchange of punches, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Soldier Boxer seemed to have the advantage in the early rounds with his powerful display. Baubali, however, showed resilience, absorbing the punches without faltering.
As the match progressed into the fifth round, signs of fatigue became apparent, but the anticipation of a full 12-round contest kept the fans' spirits high.
However, confusion broke out in the sixth round when referee Roger Bannor noticed a defect in Baubali’s boxing gloves.
The experienced referee quickly halted the bout and alerted the ringside official and Ghana Boxing Authorities about the issue. After a quick examination, a request was made for Baubali’s team to change the boxing gloves, in accordance with international boxing regulations.
The decision caught Soldier Boxer's team by surprise, leading them to suspect underhanded tactics and demand an explanation. Dissatisfied with the response, Soldier Boxer's team entered the ring in protest, causing matters to escalate.
The confusion persisted for close to 20 minutes while security tried to bring the situation under control, but the fans staged a walkout while throwing objects into the ring.
Referee Roger Bannor later exited the ring, leaving both boxers with no other option but to abandon the bout.
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