Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, known professionally as Olanrewaju ‘Success’ Segun, collapsed during a professional match in Accra and was later pronounced dead at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
The incident occurred during the third round of an eight-round light heavyweight contest against Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu, which was part of the Bel 7-Star Energy Drink Professional Boxing League. According to officials present at the event, Olanrewaju had started the bout strongly but suddenly collapsed without receiving any contact from his opponent.
Referee Richard Amevi immediately stopped the match when Olanrewaju fell to the canvas. Ringside medical staff quickly provided emergency care before paramedics transported the boxer to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel pronounced him dead approximately 30 minutes after his arrival.
Mohammed Amin Lamptey, Director of Communications for the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), confirmed the tragedy in an official statement. The GBA has completed necessary protocols, including reporting the incident to the Korle Bu Police and coordinating with the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC).
Olanrewaju’s body has been transferred to the main mortuary as authorities await an official autopsy to determine the precise cause of death. Early observations suggest the boxer may have suffered an induced coma before his passing.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Olanrewaju’s family, and the entire boxing community worldwide,” the GBA stated. The authority acknowledged the inherent risks associated with the sport while expressing hopes for the continued safety of all fighters.
Records show that Olanrewaju had received proper medical clearance from the NBBC prior to the match. He held a certified professional license and had compiled an official record of 23 fights, with 13 wins and 8 losses throughout his career.
The boxing community remains in profound sorrow as they mourn the loss of the Nigerian fighter. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the serious health considerations within professional boxing, even with stringent safety protocols in place.
