The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has issued a comprehensive statement regarding the tragic demise of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju during a professional bout held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana. The statement details the sequence of events leading up to Olanrewaju’s collapse and subsequent death, emphasizing the adherence to medical protocols and the immediate response provided by ringside officials and medical personnel. The GBA confirmed that Olanrewaju had received the necessary medical clearance from the Nigeria Boxing Board Control, certifying him fit to compete in the international contest against Ghanaian boxer John Mbanugu. This clearance, coupled with his professional boxing certification, fulfilled the requirements for the GBA to sanction and approve the fight.
The GBA’s account of the fight highlights the apparent dominance of Olanrewaju in the initial rounds. However, the tide turned tragically in the third round, approximately two minutes and 46 seconds in. Olanrewaju, without being struck by his opponent, suddenly stepped back and leaned against the ropes. Referee Richard Amevi, recognizing the unusual behavior and sensing potential danger, immediately stopped the fight. Without hesitation, Amevi summoned the ringside physician and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service, who promptly began resuscitation efforts. Despite their swift intervention, Olanrewaju could not be revived.
The GBA’s statement underscores the prompt and coordinated response to the unfolding emergency. The referee’s swift action in halting the fight and immediately calling for medical assistance highlights the prioritization of the boxer’s safety. The presence of a ringside physician and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service ensured that medical intervention was initiated without delay. This rapid response, while ultimately unable to save Olanrewaju’s life, reflects the GBA’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the boxers under its jurisdiction.
Beyond the immediate response to the incident, the GBA has taken further steps to address the tragic event. GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye personally informed the Secretary of the Nigerian Boxing Board Control about Olanrewaju’s passing. This communication ensured that the relevant authorities in Nigeria were promptly notified of the unfortunate incident. Furthermore, President Neequaye reported the incident to the Korle Bu Police Station and facilitated the transfer of Olanrewaju’s body to the mortuary for preservation. This action ensures proper handling and preservation while investigations are conducted.
The GBA’s transparency extends to informing government officials about the incident. Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, the Minister for Sports and Recreation, was formally briefed by President Neequaye about the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Olanrewaju’s death. This communication keeps the relevant government authorities apprised of the situation and allows for potential oversight and inquiries into the circumstances. The proactive reporting to both the Nigerian Boxing Board Control and the Ghanaian Ministry of Sports and Recreation demonstrates the GBA’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the face of this tragedy.
Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju’s professional boxing record stood at 24 fights, with 13 victories, 8 losses, and 3 draws. His untimely death during a sanctioned boxing match raises questions about the inherent risks associated with the sport and underscores the importance of continuous review and improvement of safety protocols. While the preliminary information suggests that Olanrewaju’s collapse was not directly caused by a blow from his opponent, a thorough investigation will be necessary to determine the exact cause of death and to identify any potential contributing factors. The GBA’s comprehensive statement, detailing the events leading up to and following the tragic incident, serves as a starting point for this investigation and underscores the organization’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
