Bernard Djanie Neequaye’s sustained campaign for better welfare for Ghanaian boxers has emerged as one of the defining features of his work as a sports journalist, culminating in his recognition by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) as its Best Boxing Journalist for the 2021–2022 review year.

The recognition followed years of specialised coverage of Ghanaian boxing by Neequaye, a journalist of the Graphic Communications Group Limited (GCGL), whose weekly From The Ringside column became a platform for examining not only boxing competitions but also some of the deeper challenges confronting athletes and the sport's administration.

Among the most significant pieces to emerge from the column was “Forgotten Champions: The Harsh Reality of Ghanaian Boxers After Retirement.” The article examined the difficult circumstances faced by some former Ghanaian fighters after their careers ended, bringing issues of financial insecurity, healthcare and the lack of adequate post-career support into the public conversation.

The welfare concerns highlighted in the article became part of a broader call for action within Ghanaian boxing. Former IBF welterweight champion Joshua Clottey also called on government and boxing promoters to give greater attention to the welfare of fighters after their active careers.

In November 2021, the Ghana Boxing Authority announced the creation of a Boxing Welfare Fund for retired boxers, with the stated objective of addressing the difficulties confronting former fighters.

According to the GBA, the initiative was intended to provide support including financial assistance, medical assistance and career-transition programmes for retired and active boxers. The authority also indicated that it would seek contributions from promoters, sanctioning bodies and corporate sponsors while exploring collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The development gave practical significance to the welfare concerns that Neequaye had repeatedly raised through his journalism.

Journalism Beyond Fight Results

Neequaye's approach to boxing reporting extended beyond documenting winners, losers and upcoming bouts.

Through From The Ringside, he regularly examined issues relating to boxer welfare, transparency, accountability and the development of Ghanaian boxing. His reporting sought to draw attention to matters affecting fighters both inside and outside the ring.

The GBA specifically recognised this aspect of his work when it announced his award in November 2022.

In A November 13, 2022 press release, the GBA praised Mr. Neequaye for his “in-depth reportage and splendid analysis” and highlighted the role of his weekly column in addressing issues important to the sport. The GBA stated that Neequaye had “elevated the sport of boxing through his commitment and professionalism,” while also commending his coverage of the Black Bombers and his continued advocacy for boxers.

“Mr. Neequaye has elevated the sport of boxing through his commitment and professionalism. He has provided exclusive coverage of the Black Bombers’ preparations and exploits in Birmingham and has continually championed the cause of boxers through his weekly column,” the GBA stated read.

Commonwealth Games Coverage

Neequaye's award also reflected his coverage of Ghana's boxing team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

The Black Bombers produced three of Ghana's five medals at the Games. Abraham Mensah and Joseph Commey won silver medals in the bantamweight and featherweight divisions respectively, while Abdul Wahid Omar took bronze in the light welterweight category.

The other two medals won by Ghana came from athletics, with Joseph Paul Amoah taking bronze in the men's 200 metres and Deborah Acquah winning bronze in the long jump.

Neequaye provided extensive coverage of the Black Bombers' preparations and performances in Birmingham, work that the GBA specifically cited in recognising his contribution to Ghanaian boxing journalism.

A Column That Became a Boxing Institution

Neequaye joined GCGL in 2013 after graduating from the Ghana Institute of Journalism and subsequently developed a specialised career covering boxing.

His From The Ringside column became a regular feature of Graphic Sports, providing a platform for commentary, analysis and investigative reporting on Ghanaian and international boxing.

Over approximately eight years, the column addressed issues extending beyond the immediate results of boxing contests. Its coverage included the welfare of fighters, the administration of the sport, transparency within the boxing industry and the need to strengthen Ghana's boxing structures.

The “Forgotten Champions” investigation represented one of the clearest examples of the column's public-interest focus. By documenting the circumstances confronting former fighters, the article helped bring retired boxers' welfare into sharper public focus at a time when stakeholders were calling for greater institutional responsibility.

The subsequent establishment of the GBA's Boxing Welfare Fund added an important institutional dimension to that discussion.