Freezy Macbones demands respect and better rewards for Ghanaian professional boxers

Ghanaian professional boxer Freezy Macbones has made a strong appeal for improved welfare and investment in the country’s boxing industry, urging stakeholders to prioritise the well-being of fighters.

In an exclusive interview, the Paris- and London-based boxer, known in private life as Seth Gyimah, described boxing as a rewarding profession that led him to step away from his career as a trained chef to pursue the sport fully.

Macbones praised Ghana’s rich boxing heritage, calling the country the “Mecca of boxing in Africa,” and insisted that while the nation boasts some of the continent’s finest talents, the business side of the sport must be better structured to attract and sustain future fighters. He cited legends such as Azumah Nelson and global icon Mike Tyson as his inspirations.

He stressed that boxing, like many sports, has the power to transform lives, but warned that athletes often do not receive the recognition and support they deserve.

“Our boxers need to be paid reasonably well so they can feed properly, perform, and continue competing,” he said. “We also need stronger sponsorship and partnerships to build a sustainable boxing industry.”

Macbones, whose wife is a French Olympic sailor, also reflected on his ambitions in the sport. His immediate goal, he revealed, is to reclaim momentum toward a continental title, specifically the WBA Africa light heavyweight belt, which he previously lost to Jonathan Tetteh at the University of Ghana Stadium.

He welcomed plans for a rematch, expected to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, expressing confidence in victory.

“I can’t wait to fight in front of my people again,” he said. “I promise to win the next fight against ‘Worldwide’ in Oseikrom.”

Outside the ring, Macbones disclosed a growing interest in horse riding, adding it to his hobbies alongside motorbike riding.

Reflecting on his absence from the 2024 Summer Olympics, he maintained a philosophical outlook, insisting he harbours no regrets.

“In life, you have to face every challenge with a positive mindset,” he noted. “Every negative can become positive, and I want to teach my children to see failure as part of victory.”

With just one defeat in 12 professional bouts, Macbones believes his division remains highly competitive. He mentioned potential future opponents including Abu Kamoko and Jacob Dickson.

Attention now turns to his first fight of the year, where he will face Nigeria’s Jamiu Animashaun in an eight-round international light heavyweight contest at Resurrection Fight Night on Easter Sunday, April 5, at Laboma Beach Resort in La, Accra.

The event, promoted by RBS Promotions and Box Office Sports Promotions, will feature a packed card, headlined by a national cruiserweight title clash between Jonathan Tetteh and Abdul Aziz Quartey. Other bouts include Nana Adjei Clinton, Alfred Lamptey against Maxwell Awuku, and Joseph Commey taking on Bright Ayala.

Ticket prices have been set at GH¢100 for the popular stand, with a discounted GH¢50 offer for early buyers from Bukom, Osu and La. Ringside and VIP packages range from GH¢1,000 to GH¢6,000, with hospitality included.