Mathias Ashitey dreams big after moving from Black Rockets to Black Bombers

SWAG Boxer of the Year 2025, Mathias Ashitey, is setting his sights on global success after celebrating his 19th birthday on May 23, with ambitions of winning gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The talented boxer, popularly known as “Take Over,” has emerged as one of Ghana’s brightest amateur boxing prospects following an impressive rise through the ranks.

Ashitey’s confidence stems from a series of notable achievements, including winning gold at the 2025 African Youth Amateur Boxing Championships in Conakry, Guinea, where he secured Ghana’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s flyweight (51kg) division.

The Jamestown-born fighter believes his journey and recent international exposure have prepared him for bigger challenges ahead.

Having started boxing at a young age through visits to various gyms, Ashitey eventually found a home at the Black Panthers Boxing Gym. Under the guidance of Coach Ebenezer Adjei, popularly known as “Killer,” he steadily developed his skills and progressed from the Black Rockets youth setup to elite-level competition, with his eyes now firmly fixed on shining with Ghana’s senior national boxing team, the Black Bombers.

His development received another boost when he joined the Bukom Boxing Gym and the Ghana Boxing Federation team, alongside Wisdom Precious Akai Nettey, for an international exchange programme in Paris, France.

According to Ashitey, the trip played a significant role in broadening his outlook and strengthening his mental approach to the sport.

He described the experience as valuable in shaping his perspective and helping him remain calm and focused on his future ambitions.

A former student of Kinbu Senior High School, Ashitey has fully committed himself to boxing and is known for his discipline and dedication to training.

For the teenage boxer, representing Ghana remains both an honour and a responsibility he embraces with pride and faith.

Explaining the inspiration behind his nickname, “Take Over,” Ashitey said it reflects his determination to dominate the sport.

He also used the occasion of his birthday to appreciate those who continue to support his journey.

“On my birthday, I thank all my fans, friends and family members. Let’s pray for life and the best,” he told Your Truly.

Ashitey is currently part of the new-look Black Bombers team preparing for the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled for July and August and is widely regarded as one of Ghana’s strongest medal prospects.

His growing reputation is backed by an impressive résumé. In addition to his African youth title, he was crowned the Fans’ Best Boxer at the 2026 National Individual Amateur Boxing Championship after defeating Caleb Mensah in a thrilling final.

He also showcased his talent on the world stage at the 2024 IBA World Youth Championships in Montenegro, reaching the Round of 16 after recording victories over opponents from Israel and France.

With his blend of talent, confidence and international experience, Mathias Ashitey appears determined to live up to his “Take Over” moniker as he pursues boxing greatness for Ghana.