Ghana’s fast-ascending boxing prodigy, Theophilus Kpakpo Allotey, has added a major accolade to his remarkable journey after being named the EMY Africa Man of the Year – Sports, a recognition that crowns an extraordinary 15-month surge through the professional ranks.
At just 23, Allotey has become one of the continent’s most electrifying talents. Since turning professional in July 2024, he has compiled a flawless 12-0 record and captured three major titles—a trajectory that has thrust him into elite company. His latest honour places him alongside past EMY Africa greats, with the awards platform—established in 2016—celebrating African men whose leadership, excellence, and impact span sports, business, culture, community development, and public service.
Allotey received the award during a glittering ceremony at the Accra International Conference Centre on Saturday night, triumphing over an exceptional field of nominees. Fellow contenders included Nigeria and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman (who graced the event), Eritrean cycling star Biniam Girmay Hailu, Uganda’s world-record-breaking distance athlete Joshua Cheptegei, and Botswana’s Paris 2024 Olympic sprint champion Leslie Tebogo.
The evening also saw distinguished business titan Sir Sam Jonah honoured as the standout personality of the 10th EMY Africa Awards, headlining a ceremony that celebrated excellence across multiple spheres.
Nicknamed “Theo Lopez,” Allotey has already captured the Ghana national title, the UBO Africa super flyweight crown, and the WBO Africa bantamweight belt within a year of turning pro—building on a strong amateur career that saw him win bronze for Ghana at the African Games.
While expressing gratitude for the EMY recognition, the young champion swiftly redirected attention to his next mission. Allotey will face his toughest challenge yet on December 20, when he battles Asian Boxing Federation super flyweight champion Jayr Raquinel of the Philippines for the WBO Global super flyweight title. The high-stakes showdown, presented by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing in partnership with Legacy Rise Sports Promotions led by Sharaf Mahama, will headline a blockbuster card at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra.
“I thank my team and especially my fans for their support. I invite everyone to join me on December 20—let’s celebrate with another victory,” Allotey told the star-studded audience of more than 100 high-profile guests, including political leaders, executives, and cultural icons.
His manager, Sarah Lotus Asare, emphasised the significance of the achievement for the team and the sport’s broader image.
“This recognition is fuel for the journey ahead. It reflects the collective work of the entire team and presented a major opportunity for Corporate Ghana to see boxing in a positive light,” she told the Graphic Sports. “The EMY platform served as an invaluable stage to showcase the fighter to corporate Ghana.”
Allotey’s rise continues to position him not only as a future world champion in the making, but also as a new face of Ghanaian excellence—an athlete inspiring confidence, ambition, and national pride on the global boxing stage.
