Error code: %{errorCode}

Boxing

Eddie Hearn promotes first show in Africa but will it include Anthony Joshua?

DAZN

3, Nov

Watch Richards vs Azeez Dec. 20 live on DAZN

The Legon Sports Stadium in Accra, Ghana, will be the venue as Matchroom Boxing stages its first-ever event in Africa on December 20, live worldwide on DAZN.

Headlining the event are Britons Craig "Spider" Richards (19-4-1, 12 KOs) and Dan "Super" Azeez (22-2-1, 14 KOs), who will square off in a light heavyweight showdown at the top of the card. There had been speculation Anthony Joshua could appear on the card, but as it stands, the former world champion is not confirmed for the show.

They are joined by Leo Atang (2-0, 2 KOs) and Nishant Dev (4-0, 2 KOs), who are set to do battle at heavyweight, along with several other bouts, as history will be made in the African nation.

"I'm so excited for December 20," Richards said. "Ghana has had some great fighters, such as Azumah Nelson, and boxing has had many significant and historic nights in Africa, such as the Rumble in the Jungle.

"I cannot wait to headline such a massive event – and I plan to put on a statement performance."

Azeez returns to the continent after defeating Sulaimon Adeosun in Lagos, Nigeria, last month, and he is eager to face his compatriot on a big stage.

"I am looking forward to facing fellow South Londoner Craig Richards in Africa," Azeez said. "This fight marks a significant moment for me — two talented boxers from South London taking their rivalry to the motherland.

"I see this as more than just a contest; it’s a celebration of heritage, hard work, and how far South London boxing has come on the global stage."

The event will also feature homegrown talent throughout the card, including Accra native and 2024 Olympian Theo Allotey taking on "The Dreamer" Jayr Raquine with the WBA Gold super flyweight title on the line, Ibrahima Diallo against Accra's Sampson Segbedzi in an IBF International super welterweight fight, an all-Ghana battle between John Laryea and Holy Dogbetor for the IBF Africa featherweight title, Ghana's Ahmed Abdulan facing Obaro Eradajaye at cruiserweight, Sedem Ama vs. Chiamaka Nwaturuoch in a women's super welterweight match and Jerry Lartey in a super lightweight fight in front of his home crowd.

"This is going to be a December to remember," Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said. "Our first-ever show in Africa will be a truly momentous occasion.

"I am excited to be taking our business into another important global territory. We know the passion of the African fight fans is right up there with the most fervent in the world, and this is a brilliant main event to look forward to with two of Britain’s leading light heavyweights in Craig Richards and Dan Azeez.

"And with young heavyweight Leo Atang and rising star Nishant Dev, Ghana will witness the exciting future of the sport firsthand. It promises to be a very special evening in Accra.”