A Former International Boxing Federation (IBF) welterweight champion, Joshua ‘The Hitter’ Clottey, says Samuel Takyi needs one more international competition to prepare him adequately for the professional ranks.
Clottey believes the Olympic bronze medallist needs to wait for the Commonwealth Games next year before deciding to turn professional after having enough fights.
There is an ongoing debate as to whether Takyi should turn professional after his heroics at the recently-held Olympic Games in Tokyo.
The 20-year-old boxer announced his decision to leave the amateur ranks on his arrival from the Games but rescinded his decision a few days later.
In an interview with Graphic Sports, Clottey explained that Takyi did not have enough amateur fights despite winning an Olympic medal, and therefore advised him to steadily build up his experience before moving into the paid ranks.
From left: Former IBF world champion, Joshua Clottey with Box Office Sports Promotios CEO, Alex Ntiamoah-Boakye and GBA President, Abraham Neequaye at a recent fight night in Accra Photo: 29Studios
“I think he (Takyi) should wait and compete at the Commonwealth Games before turning professional because he doesn’t have many fights as an amateur.
“That is very important because if you have less than 15 amateur fights, you will lack experience when you decide to turn professional,” Clottey said.
When asked if participating at the Commonwealth Games would be enough to prepare Takyi for a professional career, Clottey said his compatriot must wait and participate in the 2023 African Games, should he fail to win a medal next year.
“If he doesn’t win anything at the Commonwealth Games, then he should wait and compete at the African Games before thinking of joining the professional ranks.
However, the legendary fighter called on Ghanaians to embrace any decision by Takyi should he choose to follow his heart to quit amateur boxing.
“I wish him well in whatever decision he takes, but for now, I’m in favour of him waiting,” Clottey insisted.
Credit: Graphic Online
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