Jonathan ‘Worldwide’ Tetteh has claimed the WBA Africa Light Heavyweight title after a stunning unanimous decision victory over Seth Gyimah, known as Freezy Macbones, on Saturday night at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The bout, a thrilling climax to the “Legacy Rise” fight bill, was marred by a bizarre controversy in the eighth and final round. The stadium, packed with over 10,000 spectators, was a scene of intense emotion as the two boxers battled for supremacy.
Former President John Dramani Mahama was present as the Special Guest of Honour, adding significant national prestige to the event. His son, Sharaf Mahama, CEO of Legacy Rise, organised the undercard that culminated in the unexpected outcome.
Macbones, the UK-based fighter, entered the ring as the clear favourite. However, the 36-year-old appeared to struggle under the pressure of the psychological tactics employed by his 25-year-old opponent.
Tetteh started strongly, dominating the first two rounds with superior hand speed and aggressive tactics. He consistently caught Macbones off guard, establishing an early lead.
As the fight progressed, Macbones’ experience began to show. He found his rhythm from rounds three to six, landing punishing jabs and effective body shots that threatened to turn the tide.
By the seventh round, Tetteh showed signs of fatigue, resorting to clinching to avoid further exchanges. However, the decisive moment came in the eighth.
Amidst a flurry of punches, Tetteh suddenly collapsed to the canvas, alleging that Macbones had bitten his shoulder. The referee swiftly deducted points from Macbones for unsportsmanlike conduct, a penalty that ultimately proved crucial.
The final bell brought a tense silence as the judges tallied their scores. After a period of hushed anticipation, the ring announcer declared Jonathan Tetteh the winner by unanimous decision.
Tetteh’s record now stands at 11 wins with 11 knockouts, remaining undefeated. Macbones, meanwhile, suffers his first professional defeat, dropping to a record of 11 wins and 1 loss.
While Tetteh celebrates his hard-fought victory and ascent to the continental level, Macbones is left to reflect on a controversial ending that cost him the title. The incident is sure to spark debate amongst boxing fans in Ghana and beyond.
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