Former President Jerry John Rawlings was a loyal friend of Ghana boxing. He did not only sit back to take the plaudits when the hard work was done, he got involved!

During his military service he was in charge of the Armed Forces Boxing team and led them to many laurels. He also served on the Inter-Military Boxing Committee.

Most importantly, he grew a personal relationship with Azumah Nelson from his formative years in the national team the Black Bombers. He spent personal resources and also created the needed administrative structure to ensure the Azumah conquered the world and brought Joy to a Ghanaian people who at the time needed inspiration to help them live through trying economic times and also strive hard to achieve success in their respective fields of endeavour.

As a ring announcer, I basked in great pride anytime I saw him at ring side. I fondly remember Bukom Banku v Ayittey Powers and the shot above during the Independence Rumble in March 2017, when Richard Commey won a WBC international title.

He also met and inspired young rising boxers like former WBO Super Bantamweight champion, Isaac Dogboe and motivated a lot of others including coaches, referees, journalists and fans.

I DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU BUT I AWAIT THE OUTDOORING OF RAWLINGS'S COMPREHENSIVE BIOGRAPHY. THAT BOOK WILL NOT ONLY MAKE A GOOD READ BUT WILL PROVOKE OUR THOUGHTS.

By Nathaniel Attoh Citizen Attoh (Sports Journalist / member of GBA Media Committee / Member of Boxing Writers Association, Ghana BWAG)