Accra, Ghana — Ghanaian comedian OB Amponsah has won the 2025 Ultimate Comic Challenge at The Idiot Box Comedy Club in Greensboro, North Carolina.
He secured a $2,000 cash prize and a headlining slot at the venue.
Now in its 19th year, the competition kicked off in May and showcased comedians from all over the United States going head-to-head through several elimination rounds. The grand finale on August 9 featured six finalists: Troy Doughie Harris, Seth Payne, OB Amponsah, Musah Artsy, Ethan Justice, and Jay Stadler.
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The final showcased a variety of comedic styles, from dry observational humour to energetic physical performances.
OB Amponsah’s sharp punchlines, international perspective and skilful crowd interaction won over the audience and judges.
The results were:
• 3rd place – Jay Stadler
• 2nd place – Seth Payne
• 1st place – OB Amponsah
“This means a lot,” OB said after his win. “Moving to the U.S. and starting fresh in a new comedy scene has been a challenge. This competition gave me the chance to connect with audiences here, and the love has been incredible. Greensboro, you have my heart.”
The Idiot Box has hosted the Ultimate Comic Challenge since its inception, serving as a launchpad for many comedians’ careers. Co-owner Jenny Stencel praised OB’s performance: “Nineteen years in, and the talent just keeps getting better. OB brought something unique – clever writing, cultural depth, and that rare ability to make every person in the room feel like he’s talking directly to them.”
With his victory, OB Amponsah joins past champions who have gone on to tour nationally, appear on television and headline major comedy festivals.
His upcoming headlining set at The Idiot Box is already attracting strong interest from comedy fans.
Last Updated on August 13, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
