Former two-time IBF bantamweight world champion Joseph “King Kong” Agbeko inspired a group of young athletes in Accra last Saturday by urging them to embrace boxing as a pathway to discipline, purpose and personal growth rather than simply a means of winning titles.
Addressing participants in the maiden KH Impact Youth Mentorship Programme, organised in partnership with Wisdom Boxing Gym, Agbeko reflected on his own journey from the streets to becoming a world champion.
“Boxing changed my life. It saved me from indiscipline and street fighting and taught me values that have guided me throughout my life,” Agbeko told the participants.
“The sport is about much more than winning fights or becoming a champion—it builds discipline, respect, patience and character. If you commit yourselves to the process, boxing can make you better people, both inside and outside the ring,” he emphasised.
The one-day programme brought together 18 young pupils from Wisdom Boxing Gym, Akotoku Academy and Secondouts Gym for an intensive mentorship experience that blended boxing, education, nutrition and personal development.
Participants also explored Ghana’s rich boxing heritage through a presentation by Sarah Lotus Asare before taking part in a Vision Board Development Workshop led by KH Impact founder Kweku Hagan.
The exercise encouraged the young athletes to map out their ambitions in boxing, education, careers and family life.
A practical boxing clinic, led by Coach Elvis Robertson with support from Coaches Emmanuel Quaye, E. Adjei and trainee coach Bright Okoe, focused on fundamental techniques, safety and discipline, while nutritionist Emmanuel Justice Osei Twumasi educated participants on healthy eating using locally available Ghanaian foods.
Each participant received boxing equipment, a personalised vision board and educational materials before sharing a meal.
The organisers described the programme as the first step in a long-term initiative aimed at equipping young people with the mindset, life skills and support needed to succeed both inside and outside the boxing ring.
