Nigerian boxer Gabriel Olusewagun Olanrewaju tragically passed away on Saturday, 29 March, during a bout against Ghana’s Jon Power Mbanugu.
The Ghana Olympic Committee confirmed the heartbreaking news.
The incident occurred during an international undercard contest at the Ghana Professional Boxing League, held at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
Throughout the fight, both boxers exchanged jabs and cautiously sized each other up.
However, Olusewagun, aged 40, suddenly staggered back and collapsed onto the ropes, despite not having been struck by any punch.
He then fell to the canvas. Ringside doctor and referee Richard Amevi quickly intervened, removing his gum shield and calling for an ambulance.
Olusewagun was rushed to the nearby Korle Bu Hospital but was later confirmed deceased.
Gabriel Olusewagun was a former national and West African light-heavyweight champion.
Mbanugu, who won by knockout, expressed his sorrow following the incident.
While he was pleased with the victory, he was deeply saddened by the way his opponent went down.
At 22, Mbanugu, also known as “Power,” now holds a record of 13 wins, one draw, and one loss.
