Ghana’s boxing scene was left in mourning on Saturday, March 29, 2025, after Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju tragically passed away during an international undercard fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
Olanrewaju, aged 40, was facing Ghana’s John “Power” Mbanugu in an exciting match on the Ghana Professional Boxing League undercard when the incident occurred.
The bout, which had seen both fighters exchanging impressive jabs and showing strong skills, took a devastating turn when Olanrewaju suddenly staggered and fell to the canvas without taking any apparent blow.
The veteran boxer, whose record stood at 13 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, appeared to lose his footing and collapsed against the ropes before hitting the mat.
The referee, Richard Amevi, and ringside medical staff immediately sprang into action, rushing to assist Olanrewaju.
The referee called for urgent medical support as they worked quickly to remove his gum shield and administer first aid. Olanrewaju was quickly placed in an ambulance and rushed to the nearby Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for further treatment.
Despite the swift intervention of medical personnel, reports soon emerged that Olanrewaju had passed away, sending shockwaves through the boxing community.
The tragic incident occurred just 15 seconds before the end of the third round of the scheduled eight-round bout.
While the official cause of death is yet to be confirmed, speculation points to a potential cardiac event.
Olanrewaju’s untimely death is particularly heartbreaking as he was performing well in the match.
The former National and West African light-heavyweight champion had a long career in the sport, but his life was cut short in a tragic and unforeseen moment.
In the aftermath of the match, Mbanugu, who was declared the winner by knockout, expressed his mixed emotions.
The 22-year-old Ghanaian boxer, whose record now stands at 13 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss, shared his sorrow about the situation, stating, “I’m happy with the win, but I am deeply saddened by the way my opponent went down. This is not how I wanted to win.”
Mbanugu, known for his exciting boxing style, is managed by Osibor Promotions. Despite his victory, the event was overshadowed by the tragedy, with the atmosphere at the Bukom Boxing Arena turning somber in the wake of Olanrewaju’s death.
