John Laryea recognized by IBF as new continental Africa champion

John Abaja Laryea has received official recognition from the International Boxing Federation (IBF) as the new IBF Continental Africa Featherweight Champion, cementing his status on the continental boxing stage.

Laryea secured the title after an electrifying victory over Holy Dorgbetor on December 20, 2025, at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium in Legon.

The bout, staged under the banner of Sharaf Mahama’s Legacy Rise Sports, further elevated Laryea’s growing reputation in African boxing.

With the IBF crown now added to his collection, Laryea becomes a triple champion, having previously won the WBO Africa Featherweight title on two occasions. The latest achievement underscores his consistency and dominance in the division.

His manager, Sammy Anim Addo, expressed delight following the official confirmation from the IBF. In its correspondence, the federation congratulated Laryea on his achievement, describing his win over Dorgbetor as clear proof of his championship pedigree.

The IBF also praised his accomplishment and expressed confidence that he would represent the organisation with honour, distinction, and integrity.

The federation noted that Laryea would be contacted in due course regarding mandatory title defenses. The recognition letter was signed by Carlos Ortiz Jr., Vice Chairman of the IBF Championships Committee, and copied to senior IBF officials Daryl Peoples, George Martinez, and Ben Keilty.