Nigerian Boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju Passes Away During Bout in Accra

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has confirmed the tragic passing of Nigerian professional boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a fight on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.

According to the statement issued by the GBA, Olanrewaju had undergone and passed all mandatory medical examinations prior to the fight. He was cleared by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, which approved his participation in the bout against Ghanaian boxer John Mbanugu.

The statement recounted the sequence of events on the night of the tragedy. Olanrewaju reportedly performed strongly in the opening rounds, appearing to have the upper hand until an unexpected turn of events in the third round.

“Moments before the end of round three, Olanrewaju stepped back from the action and leaned against the ropes, showing no signs of having taken a decisive hit from his opponent,” the GBA detailed.

Sensing the seriousness of the situation, referee Richard Amevi immediately halted the fight and called for medical attention. Ringside doctors, assisted by national ambulance service paramedics, rushed to provide emergency care.

Following the incident, GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye formally reported the case to both the Korle Bu Police Station and the Secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control. The late boxer’s body was transferred to the Korle Bu mortuary for preservation.

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, was also notified about the sad event.

Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju’s professional boxing record included 24 fights, with 13 wins, 8 losses, and 3 draws.

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