Joseph Awinongya Jr., aka Jojo The Boxer, a 21-time national boxing champion and Team USA athlete, is urging World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach, and the entire executive body of these organizations to secure the continuation of boxing in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
As an Olympic hopeful, Awinongya Jr. highlights the importance of the Games in fostering international unity and providing a platform for athletes who have dedicated their lives to competing at the highest level.
“The Olympics are a powerful symbol of unity, determination, and achievement,” said Awinongya. “For athletes like me, who have spent years working toward this moment, the 2028 Games are everything. I call on Boris van der Vorst and the IOC to ensure that the Games happen and continue to inspire future generations of athletes.”
At just 13 years old, Joseph Awinongya Jr. began college, and now at 17 years old, he is completing his senior year on a full scholarship at the University of St. Francis, balancing his studies with an internship at Darcy Motors in Joliet, IL. After finishing his bachelor’s degree, he plans on continuing on to a master’s degree from Northwestern, Harvard, or the University of St. Francis. Despite his young age, Joseph has his sights set on the ultimate goal—competing in the Olympics, where he hopes to represent Team USA and bring home a gold medal. His journey reflects both his dedication to academics and his relentless pursuit of excellence in the boxing ring.
Awinongya, who is training for the 2028 Olympics, sees the event as a critical stage for athletes from around the world to showcase their talents and perseverance. In light of global challenges, he believes that the Olympics play an essential role in bringing the world together through sportsmanship and shared goals.
“These Games are about more than just competition—they are about the human spirit, and now more than ever, we need that inspiration,” Awinongya added. “I urge Boris van der Vorst to join athletes and fans in ensuring that boxing in the 2028 Olympics moves forward.”
As one of Team USA’s top boxing prospects, Awinongya is using his platform to advocate for the 2028 Olympics and encourage the global sports community to support boxing in the Games.
