Samuel Takyi Eyes Revenge Against Golden Boy

Ghana’s Olympic hero Samuel Takyi believes his path to lightweight world championship contention is closer than most expect. The 24-year-old knockout artist, now training out of London, says sacrifices made outside the ring are setting him up for major success inside of it.

Takyi etched his name into Ghanaian sporting history at Tokyo 2020, capturing bronze in boxing—the nation’s first Olympic medal in any sport since 1992. Yet despite the fanfare, he didn’t turn professional until June 2022. Since then, he has wasted no time making a statement: seven wins, all by knockout, none past the third round.

“I want to be world champion by the end of 2026,” Takyi declared. “That might sound crazy, but I need to be moving quick. Next year will be fireworks for me in this division. The big guys at lightweight should be ready for me.”

New Home, New Growth

Earlier this year, Takyi left his home comforts in Accra for Walthamstow, London, where he now works with respected trainer Xav Miller at IQ Boxing in Neasden. The move, orchestrated by manager Mickey Amoo-Bediako, is one Takyi says was essential to his development.

“Being over here I get lots of good sparring and I’m always learning and developing. Now I think I’m ready. I’m ready for anything,” he said, admitting the biggest adjustment has been missing traditional Ghana Jollof.

“Chaos in the Ring” Test

Takyi returns Wednesday at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Nigeria as part of the Chaos in the Ring card, live on DAZN. He faces fellow unbeaten puncher Fatiu Ijomoni (11-0, 11 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight clash that seems destined for an early finish.

Should he win, Takyi is expected back in action in December his sixth fight in 15 months.

Lightweight is among boxing’s most competitive divisions. Raymond Muratalla (IBF), Gervonta Davis (WBA), and Shakur Stevenson (WBC) currently hold titles, with Abdullah Mason vs. Sam Noakes set for November 22 in Riyadh to decide the vacant WBO crown.

But Takyi has one specific rival in mind: Floyd Schofield, unbeaten prospect under Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions.

“I want to fight Floyd Schofield,” Takyi said. “If I can beat Schofield, that will be revenge for Ike Quartey. I know I can knock him out. I’m coming for him to claim revenge for our legend.”

With a perfect record, Olympic pedigree, and knockout power, Takyi is positioning himself as Ghana’s next great export one determined to join Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, and Joshua Clottey on the nation’s roll of world champions.