The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has confirmed the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during an international bout at the ongoing Bel 7star Energy Drink Professional Boxing League. The incident occurred during Week 15 of the league last Saturday, shocking the boxing community.
Olanrewaju, a light heavyweight fighter, faced Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu in an eight-round contest at the Imax Boxing Promotions event. He reportedly dominated the early rounds but suddenly leaned on the ropes in Round 3 at 2 minutes and 46 seconds without receiving any punches from his opponent. Referee Richard Amevi immediately stopped the fight and called for medical assistance.
Ringside physicians and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service administered first aid before transporting Olanrewaju to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.
GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye, who was present at the scene, swiftly coordinated with the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC) and local authorities. The incident was reported to the Korle Bu Police Station, and arrangements were made to move the body to the main mortuary for preservation. Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofu Adams, was also informed.
Olanrewaju, who had been medically certified by the NBBC, held a professional record of 23 fights, with 13 victories—12 by knockout—and 8 defeats. The GBA acknowledged his potential in the sport, noting that he had been in control of the fight before his sudden collapse.
Expressing condolences to the NBBC and boxing fans worldwide,
GBA reflected on the unfortunate history of deaths in the ring and emphasized the unpredictability of such tragedies.
autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death. The boxing fraternity mourns the loss, with the GBA signing off: “May the soul of Gabriel Oluwasegun and all other boxers who died in similar circumstances rest in perfect peace.”
