Nigerian Boxer Dies After Collapsing During Fight in Ghana

ACCRA, Ghana — Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, a former national and West African light-heavyweight champion, died Saturday after collapsing in the ring during a bout against Ghana's Jon Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. The tragic incident, which occurred during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League, has sent shockwaves through the boxing community in both Nigeria and Ghana, prompting questions about safety measures and leaving fellow athletes and fans in mourning.

Collapse in the Third Round

The fight between Olanrewaju, known as "Success" Segun, and Mbanugu was an eight-round contest. Reports indicate that Olanrewaju was ahead on points when he suddenly lost consciousness in the third round. According to witnesses, Olanrewaju stepped back and leaned on the ropes without any apparent punch from his opponent before collapsing. Referee Richard Amevi immediately stopped the fight and summoned medical personnel.

A video circulating on social media shows the harrowing moment when Olanrewaju collapsed, prompting immediate response from the referee, trainers, and medical personnel.

Unsuccessful Resuscitation Attempts

Despite urgent efforts to revive him at the scene by ringside physicians and paramedics from the national ambulance service, Olanrewaju remained unresponsive. He was rushed to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. While an official cause of death has not been confirmed, initial speculation suggests a possible cardiac arrest.

Boxing Community Mourns

The death of Olanrewaju has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from the boxing community. He was remembered as a dedicated and highly respected figure in the sport. His opponent, Jon Mbanugu, visibly distraught by the tragic turn of events, has expressed deep condolences to Olanrewaju's family and loved ones.

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) released a statement confirming that Olanrewaju had been medically cleared by the Nigeria Boxing Board Control before the fight. "Oluwasegun was declared medically fit by the Nigeria Boxing Board Control with his certification as a professional boxer before the GBA sanctioned and approved the international contest," the statement read.

Remi Aboderin, the general secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, expressed devastation, stating, "[This] is not something we envisaged."

Questions Raised About Safety

Olanrewaju's death has sparked widespread discussion and public outcry, with many questioning the safety measures in place at the event. Social media has been flooded with comments from both Ghanaians and Nigerians expressing concern.

The Trust Sports Emporium (TSE), managers of the Bukom Boxing Arena, issued a press release confirming the boxer's death and announcing the postponement of the boxing league. "It is with deep regret that the Trust Sports Emporium confirms the death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed in the ring during an IMAX Boxing League match at Bukom Boxing Arena and was later pronounced dead at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital," the organization stated.

TSE clarified that while they manage the arena, IMAX Boxing Promotions was responsible for organizing the event. They emphasized that medics and an ambulance were present at the event as part of their commitment to safety.

IMAX Boxing Promotions, the organizers of the Bel7 Ghana Professional Boxing League, have yet to provide any information on the incident.

A Career Cut Short

Olanrewaju, a 40-year-old veteran, held both the Nigerian and West African light-heavyweight titles during his career. His last recorded fight before Saturday's unfortunate incident was on Dec. 24, 2024, against Idowu Raheed in Lagos. He was a respected figure in Nigerian boxing, known for his powerful punches and resilient spirit.

Aftermath and Investigation

The GBA President has reported the incident to the Korle Bu Police Station. The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, was formally informed of the incident. The Trust Sports Emporium has postponed the proposed start of the Amateur Boxing League until all major issues arising from the boxer's death have been duly addressed.

The tragic death of Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in boxing and the importance of stringent safety measures. As investigations continue, the boxing community grapples with the loss of a respected athlete and the need to ensure the well-being of fighters in the future.