The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has officially confirmed the tragic death of Nigerian boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena and was later pronounced dead at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

In a statement released on Sunday, March 30, 2025, and signed by the Director of Communications, Mohammed Amin Lamptey, the GBA disclosed that Oluwasegun was declared dead 30 minutes after arriving at the hospital.

The statement emphasized that the Nigerian boxer was medically certified fit by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC) before the GBA sanctioned and approved the international contest.

Incident During the Bout

During the 8-round light heavyweight international contest against his Ghanaian opponent, Jon Mbanugu, Oluwasegun appeared to be in control from the first round. However, in the third round, with only a few seconds left to the end of the round, he suddenly leaned back on the ropes without taking any punches from his opponent and collapsed.

Sensing the danger, referee Richard Amevi immediately stopped the fight and called for the intervention of the ringside physician, assisted by paramedics from the National Ambulance Service. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Oluwasegun was rushed to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.

GBA’s Immediate Actions

GBA President, Abraham Kotei Neequaye, who was present at the ringside and accompanied the boxer to the hospital, quickly initiated the process of preserving the body after his passing. He also informed the General Secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC), Remi Abodorin, and reported the incident to the Korle Bu police station. The body was later transferred to the main mortuary for preservation.

Gabriel Oluwasegun’s Professional Record

Before the bout, Oluwasegun had an official record of 23 fights, with 13 victories, 8 defeats, and 12 of his wins coming by way of knockout. Despite his promising career, his life was tragically cut short during a contest that he appeared to be dominating.

Condolences and Mourning

The GBA extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC), and the entire boxing community in Ghana and around the world. The statement acknowledged the unfortunate reality that the sport of boxing, despite its thrill and excitement, has recorded several tragic deaths over the years.

“May the soul of Gabriel Oluwasegun and all other boxers who have died under similar circumstances rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.