Background
Born in Accra, Ghana in 1962, Akay settled with his family in Clapham, London in the 1970s where he boxed out of the All Stars Boxing and Youth Club, which his father—former professional Isola Akay had started.
Born in Accra, Ghana in 1962, Akay settled with his family in Clapham, London in the 1970s where he boxed out of the All Stars Boxing and Youth Club, which his father—former professional Isola Akay had started.
He represented Ghana at the 1984 Summer Olympics at light-heavyweight, losing to Evander Holyfield in the first stage of the competition. He turned pro in 1985, and was unbeaten in his first five fights. In October 1986 he faced Andy Straughn for the British cruiserweight title vacated by Sammy Reeson, losing on points.
Three further victories in 1987 set him up for a challenge for Glenn McCrory"s Commonwealth title.
When McCrory vacated the British title later that year, Akay and Straughn met in November to contest lieutenant Straughn again took a narrow points decision.
Angol stopped Akay in the third round to retain the titles. This proved to be Akay"s final fight.
Taju Akay died in May 2006 after suffering a heart attack.