After 2022’s melodic JAMZ, Sarkodie returns with fighting bars on The Championship. Presented as a soundtrack to his ascent to the ranks of the heavyweights, the Ghanaian rapper’s mixtape oscillates between the reflective, grateful and boastful via Twi-infused lyricism. Ducking and weaving between cinematic production laid by Fortune Dane, M.O.G Beatz and Altra Nova, Sarkodie recruits Joey B, Beeztrap Kotm and Xlimkid to help relay his thoughts. Triumphant opener “CONFETTI” houses the excerpts of a victory speech (“Always been a heavyweight/Me I never go lose”), while “BRAG” crystallises Sarkodie’s competitive spirit through weighty name-drops. With its subdued acoustics, “TRAUMA” provides comfort after detailing the trials of manhood. “LOYALTY” shifts to an extrinsic focus by sharing lessons on insincere allegiances, and the soulful closer, “AMEN”, offers refuge in faith. The interplay between strife and glory thematically underpins The Championship and, although self-eulogising, this is a seasoned fighter reckoning with all the cuts and bruises.