Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju tragically passed away after collapsing during a bout in Ghana. The 40-year-old light-heavyweight fighter was competing against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on March 29, 2025. In the third round, Olanrewaju collapsed without apparent contact from his opponent. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, he was pronounced dead approximately 30 minutes later.
Olanrewaju, known as “Success,” began his professional boxing career in 2019. He secured both the Nigerian and West African light-heavyweight titles, boasting a record of 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, with 12 of his victories by knockout. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the boxing community.
The Ghana Boxing Authority confirmed the incident, stating that Olanrewaju was declared medically fit before the match. They reported that he collapsed mid-fight, prompting immediate medical intervention. The Nigerian Boxing Board of Control expressed their devastation, stating, “We are really devastated. [This] is not something we envisaged. We will live up to our responsibility and make sure that we stand [by] the family.”
Mauricio Sulaimán, president of the World Boxing Council, extended his condolences and announced that an autopsy would be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
The boxing communities in Nigeria and Ghana are mourning the loss of a dedicated athlete whose career was marked by significant achievements and a commitment to the sport.
