Ekow Essuman has faced challenges on his journey to a world title shot, dealing with facility issues at his boxing academy. Despite losing his British title two years ago, he gained momentum by defeating former champion Josh Taylor. Now, he aims to secure a shot at a major title by facing Jack Catterall soon.
The upcoming match will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, supporting Chris Eubank Jr’s fight with Conor Benn in front of a large crowd. Essuman, aged 36, is eager to compete in a safe environment, unlike his current gym plagued by maintenance problems.
The DCT Boxing Academy in Nottingham has struggled with infrastructure issues, forcing the club to spend significant sums on repairs. Essuman expressed concerns about the gym’s safety, citing malfunctioning facilities and ongoing leaks causing puddles in the ring.
Essuman highlighted the challenges faced by the gym, including non-functional toilets, heating problems, and roof leaks leading to water damage. The gym had to invest in new equipment, replace flooring, and address safety hazards to ensure a suitable training environment.
Despite finding temporary training arrangements for his upcoming fight, Essuman’s community outreach programs have been disrupted. He emphasized the impact on youth and community members who benefited from the gym’s activities, such as anti-knife classes and youth training sessions.
As Essuman prepares for a crucial fight, he also faces the task of addressing the ongoing issues at his gym. His dedication to boxing and community support remains steadfast, reflecting his commitment to overcoming challenges both inside and outside the ring.