The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has confirmed the tragic passing of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a professional bout in Accra and was later pronounced dead at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
In a statement signed by GBA Director of Communications Mohammed Amin Lamptey, the authority clarified the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Olanrewaju was competing against Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu in an eight-round light heavyweight contest as part of the Bel 7-Star Energy Drink Professional Boxing League (Week 15), promoted by Imax Boxing Promotions. He started strongly but collapsed in Round 3 (2:46 minutes in) without receiving a punch.
Referee Richard Amevi quickly stopped the fight, and ringside medics and paramedics provided emergency care before rushing him to Korle Bu, where he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.
GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye oversaw the necessary protocols, reporting the incident to the Korle Bu Police and coordinating with NBBC General Secretary Remi Abodorin. The body has been transferred to the main mortuary as authorities await an official autopsy report to determine the cause of death.
The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, has been formally notified.
Olanrewaju was medically cleared by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC) before the fight, holding a certified professional license. He had an official record of 23 fights, 13 wins (12 by knockout), and 8 losses.
While the exact cause remains unknown, preliminary observations suggest he may have suffered an induced coma.
The GBA has extended its condolences to the NBBC, the boxer’s family, and the global boxing community, acknowledging the risks of the sport and praying for the safety of all fighters.