Boxing Referee Barnor Quits

Roger Barnor

The fallout of the Tagoe-Pontillas fight regarding refereeing has forced Roger Barnor, the centre man in the ring on the night, to quit officiating with immediate effect.

Having served the sport he adored so much for close to two decades, Barnor called time on officiating following the insults he was subjected to after the fight.

Beleaguered Barnor believed his performance on the night was not below average, to warrant the wild criticism from all quarters, particularly from boxing legend Azumah Nelson and the media.

He however admitted he erred in some of the decisions he made but expressed shock at how far his critics had taken the matter.

The referee had been accused of unprofessional conduct, with regard to interpreting the rules of the game to his own whims and caprices.

'It is sad some of our pressmen don't know the rules of the game. It is true I spoke to Tagoe to raise his head in Ga. I spoke to Pontillas in like manner so I see no reason why I should be castigated in this manner.

'Azumah, no doubt was a great boxer, but he comes nowhere near when it comes to interpretation of the rules. His problem with me is his desire to manage Tagoe which did not work out.

'I have met with my family and they have advised I lay down my tools to end the embarrassment. I have officiated countless bouts, and I believe I deserve some level of honour and recognition.

'I want to respect the decision by my family, so nothing will reverse my decision. As you can see, I have in my hands the resignation letter, I am tired of the insults, it's ok,' he added.

Meanwhile, referee Barnor is due to face the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) Disciplinary Committee.

By Kofi Owusu Aduonum
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