Lawrence Nyanyo Nmai calls for revival of kickboxing in Ghana

Ghanaian kickboxing star Lawrence Nyanyo Nmai has called for the revival of kickboxing and more Muay Thai events to create employment opportunities for young athletes and raise the sport's profile in the country.

Nmai, a two-time Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) award winner and WBC MuayThai champion, said it was disappointing to see kickboxing decline in Ghana while the sport continues to attract audiences and generate income in other parts of the world.

Speaking on Omashi TV's The Big Fight Night, the fighter, popularly known as 'The Punisher', urged the Ghana Kickboxing Association to step up its efforts to organise competitions and develop young talent.

He said kickboxing could provide a platform for talented sportsmen and women to earn a living if the right structures and opportunities were put in place.

Nmai also proposed collaboration between the Ghana Kickboxing Association and the country's boxing authorities, arguing that the popularity of boxing in Ghana could help promote combat sports more broadly.

• Nmai raises concerns over Labadi Pleasure Beach

The Europe-based fighter also expressed sadness over the demolition of Labadi Pleasure Beach, a destination he described as central to his life and family history.

Nmai is the son of Ataa Nmai, whom he identifies as the discoverer of the beach and a former lifeguard.

He said the beach had served as a home and source of livelihood for many people, expressing concern about the impact of its demolition on those who depended on it for business.

"The beach has been our home and everything. Now it's no more. That is life, but there should have been a humane face, as Christmas is approaching and people could have made investments and borrowed to do business. Anyway, let's see what happens," he said.

Nmai called for the site to be put to better use and urged the government to create more employment opportunities for young people in La, Accra and across Ghana.

He also appealed for greater support to help young people discover and develop their sporting talents.

• Nmai's commitment to combat sports

Beyond his achievements in the ring, Nmai has supported Ghanaian kickboxing through personal contributions, including funding national team participation in competitions and providing kits, transportation and allowances for athletes.

He has also extended his support to athletes in other disciplines, including boxing, football, table tennis and tennis, particularly those in need of financial assistance.

Nmai founded the Power Zone Club before establishing the Pro Fighting Factory, which brings together some of Ghana's leading fighters.

He is expected to defend his WBC MuayThai title in Thailand and compete in Japan as he continues his international career.

The champion also praised Ghanaian boxers, including Freezy Macbones and Theo Allotey, as well as young amateur fighters who impressed during their contests against the Metro Detroit Golden Gloves team.

Nmai concluded by appealing to the media to give greater attention to less-funded and less popular sporting disciplines, saying increased coverage could help attract investment, create opportunities and encourage the next generation of athletes.