Segun Atanda/
Following widespread reports of the sudden and tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju during a professional bout in Ghana, the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has released an official statement addressing the incident.
Olanrewaju, who was competing in an eight-round light heavyweight international contest against Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu, collapsed unexpectedly in the third round at the 2:46 mark. Despite having dominated the fight, the Nigerian fighter leaned back against the ropes without taking any apparent punch from his opponent. Referee Richard Amevi, recognizing the urgency of the situation, immediately halted the fight and summoned medical assistance.
Ringside physicians and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service attempted to resuscitate Olanrewaju before transporting him to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.
GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye, who was present at both the venue and the hospital, swiftly initiated necessary procedures, including informing the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC) and reporting the incident to the Korle Bu Police Station. He also worked to ensure the proper preservation of the boxer’s body.
In response to the tragedy, the GBA emphasized that Olanrewaju had been medically cleared to fight by the NBBC, with official records confirming 23 fights, 13 victories—12 by knockout—and eight defeats.
“The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) is deeply saddened by this tragic event. Olanrewaju was a potential world champion who had displayed great skill in the ring before the unfortunate incident,” the statement read. “We extend our condolences to the NBBC, his family, and the entire boxing fraternity.”
An autopsy report is awaited to determine the official cause of death. Meanwhile, the Ghanaian sports community, including Minister for Sports and Recreation Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, has been formally briefed on the situation.
As the boxing world continues to grapple with the risks associated with the sport, the GBA has called for prayers for the safety of fighters and to honor the memory of Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju.
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