David Kotey

Biography

David Kotey, affectionately known as "D.K. Poison," is legendary in Ghanaian boxing history. Born on December 7, 1950, in Accra, Ghana, Kotey's journey to becoming a world champion began in the amateur ranks. His early days were spent honing his skills in the vibrant boxing community of Bukom, a suburb renowned for producing some of Ghana's most celebrated boxers, including Roy Ankrah, Azumah Nelson, and Ike Quartey. Kotey's amateur career laid the foundation for his professional debut, which took place on February 5, 1966, at a venue in Accra. That day, he outpointed his opponent, Famous Lartey, over six rounds, beginning a storied career.

Kotey's professional career spanned an impressive 23 years and seven months, during which he compiled a record of 49 wins, 8 losses, and 3 draws from 60 bouts. His rise to prominence was swift, as he became the national featherweight champion in his debut year. Over the years, Kotey faced various opponents, including a stint in Australia in 1972, where he fought seven times, winning five and losing two. One of his most significant victories came on February 2, 1974, when he knocked out Tahar Ben Hassen in the first round to claim the African featherweight title in Tunis, Tunisia. Later that year, on December 7, 1974, he secured the Commonwealth featherweight title with a technical knockout over Evan Armstrong in round 10.

The pinnacle of Kotey's career arrived on September 20, 1975, when he defeated Rubén Olivares by a split decision to capture the World Boxing Council (WBC) featherweight title at The Forum in Inglewood, California. This historic victory made him the first Ghanaian to win a world boxing title. Kotey successfully defended his title once, knocking out Flipper Uehara of Japan on March 6, 1976, at the Accra Sports Stadium in front of a packed crowd of 50,000 spectators. However, his reign as champion was short-lived, as he lost the title to Danny "Little Red" Lopez on November 6, 1976, in Accra. Despite his efforts to regain the title, Kotey was unsuccessful and eventually transitioned to the lightweight division. His final professional bout took place on September 30, 1989, when he lost a bid for the African lightweight title.

Kotey's career was marked by encounters with world-class fighters, including his victories over Fuku Yama in Japan and his title defence against Flipper Uehara. His legacy extends beyond his achievements in the ring; he is celebrated as a pioneer for Ghanaian boxing, paving the way for future generations of boxers from his country. After retirement, Kotey has lived a relatively modest life despite facing personal and financial challenges. The government recognised his contributions to Ghanaian sports, which awarded him an estate house in Accra following his world title win. Despite his challenges, Kotey remains an iconic figure in Ghanaian boxing history, remembered for his tenacity and skill in the ring.