Carl Lokko, Head trainer of Ghanaian boxing standout John “The Expensive Boxer” Laryea, has reiterated his unwavering commitment to steering the featherweight contender toward global glory following the fighter’s latest career milestone.
Laryea’s most recent triumph came on December 20, 2025, when the Ghanaian boxed to victory over compatriot Holy Dorgbetor in a 10-round featherweight contest at the Legon Sports Stadium in Accra.
The performance earned Laryea the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Continental Africa Featherweight Championship, a title the global body formally recognised in January 2026.Speaking passionately this week, Lokko underscored the level of dedication required to take Laryea from continental success to the world stage.
“The dream and the aim is to give Ghana a world champion. You [as a trainer] have to be more dedicated and meet the right person to help him reach [the level] of what he has to do. My dream is to make him a world champion or be there for him to become a world champion. That’s what I’m also looking out for,” Lokko said in a heartfelt declaration.
The official recognition from the IBF not only cements Laryea’s growing influence on the continental scene but also places him in stronger contention for future international assignments.
In a letter dated January 12, 2026, the federation congratulated Laryea for the feat and expressed confidence in his ability to “represent the organisation with honour, distinction and integrity” as his career progresses.
As Laryea surveys potential international opportunities and mandatory title defences that could follow his IBF recognition, Lokko’s mission remains clear: to harness the fighter’s talent and guide him onto the biggest stages the sport has to offer.
