Ghana Sets Up Committee to Investigate Nigerian Boxer Olanrewaju's Tragic Death During Bout

The death of Nigerian boxer Oluwasegun "Success" Olanrewaju has rocked the sports world, sparking outrage and concern over the safety of athletes in combat sports. Olanrewaju tragically passed away after collapsing during a bout at the Trust Sports Emporium Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana, on March 29, 2025.

The Ghanaian Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has taken immediate action, forming a seven-man committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the boxer’s untimely death. This committee, headed by Major (Retd) Amarkai Amarteifio, includes several notable figures, such as former Ghana Boxing Authority President Peter Zwennes and veteran sports journalists Ekow Ansah and Samuel Bartels.

Olanrewaju, a former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, collapsed in the middle of his fight against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League. 

Despite being rushed to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, the 40-year-old was later pronounced dead. An autopsy revealed that the cause of death was sudden cardiac arrest, leaving many questions unanswered.

The committee has been tasked with investigating whether proper safety protocols were followed during the fight and whether the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) and Ghana Boxing Authority adhered to international standards in the lead-up to the bout. 

Concerns have also been raised about the weight differential between Olanrewaju and his opponent, with accusations that no pre-fight medical checks were conducted, possibly contributing to the tragedy.

As the investigation continues, the spotlight remains on the broader issue of athlete safety in combat sports, with the tragic loss of Olanrewaju highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations and oversight.

OlanrewajuDeath #GhanaBoxing #NigerianBoxer #SuddenCardiacArrest #BoxingInvestigation #SportsSafety #GhanaBoxingAuthority #FightTragedy #NigeriaBoxing #AthleteHealth