By The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has announced that the Bel 7-Star Energy Drink Professional Boxing League will proceed as planned. This decision comes despite the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju. He collapsed during a bout in Accra. Later, he was pronounced dead at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
Mohammed Amin Lamptey, the GBA’s Public Relations Officer, emphasized that while the loss is deeply felt. It will not derail the momentum of the professional league.
Olanrewaju was a former National and West African light-heavyweight champion. He was facing Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu. It was an eight-round light-heavyweight bout during Week 15 of the Bel 7-Star Energy Drink Professional Boxing League. Imax Boxing Promotions promoted the event at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
The fight, held on March 29, 2025, began with Olanrewaju showcasing his signature strength, dominating the early rounds.
However, in a shocking turn of events, he collapsed at the 2:46 mark of Round 3. He had not taken a punch. This left the crowd and officials in stunned silence.
Referee Richard Amevi immediately halted the contest, signaling for medical intervention.
Ringside medics and paramedics sprang into action, providing emergency care before rushing Olanrewaju to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival, a devastating outcome that has shaken the boxing community.
The cause of his collapse remains under investigation. Preliminary speculation points to a possible medical emergency. It is considered more likely than fight-related trauma.
The GBA quickly issued a statement. They acknowledged the tragedy at the Bukom Boxing Arena. This arena is synonymous with Ghana’s boxing heritage.
Meanwhile, the Trust Sports Emporium manages the arena. They announced the suspension of the Ghana Amateur Boxing League. This is to address safety concerns and review protocols.
However, the GBA’s stance on the professional league starkly contrasts with this decision.
Mohammed Amin Lamptey spoke to Citi Sports’ Bennard Abeiku Okyere on Sunday, March 30. He addressed the incident with resolve.
Fatalities are always there for painful reminders, not only in Boxing, football, basketball, hockey, horse racing and so on.
What happened yesterday, I believe, serves as an eye-opener to all members of the Boxing fraternity in Ghana. It also extends to those beyond.
When you go to the record, there are countless Boxers who have died in the ring. Most of them died because of brain bleeding. Many fall into a coma. Some have had problems with head trauma and so on. They are notable injuries in boxing.
I don’t think what happened will diminish the excitement of the boxing league we are running. It is normal. This is not the first time it has happened.
If my memory serves me right, i don’t remember in Ghana , that a boxer died in the process.
