By Jones Gadama
A devastating incident occurred on Saturday night at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana, when Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju collapsed during a light heavyweight international contest against Ghanaian opponent Jon Mbanugu.
Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Olanrewaju was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has released an official statement confirming the death of Olanrewaju, who was declared medically fit by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC) before the fight.
The statement, signed by Mohammed Amin Lamptey, Director of Communication for the GBA, provided details of the incident and expressed condolences to the NBBC and the boxing community.
According to eyewitnesses, Olanrewaju dominated the fight from the opening round, but suddenly stepped back and leaned on the ropes with his back without being punched by his opponent.
The referee, Richard Amevi, sensing danger, immediately stopped the fight and summoned the ringside physician and paramedics to attend to the boxer.
The GBA president, Abraham Kotei Neequaye, was present at the scene and ensured that Olanrewaju received prompt medical attention.
He also reported the incident to the Korle Bu police station and helped to move the body to the main mortuary for preservation.
The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon Kofi Iddie Adams, was formally informed of the incident by the GBA president.
The boxing community in Ghana and Nigeria has been left in shock and mourning, with many paying tribute to Olanrewaju’s skills and potential in the ring.
Olanrewaju’s record stood at 23 fights, with 13 victories, 8 defeats, and 2 draws. Twelve of his victories came by way of knockout.
His death has raised concerns about fighter safety and the importance of adequate medical care in professional boxing.
The GBA has promised to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and to provide support to Olanrewaju’s family.
The boxing community will come together to pay tribute to Olanrewaju’s memory and to reflect on the risks and sacrifices made by boxers in the pursuit of their sport.
As the news of Olanrewaju’s death continues to spread, the boxing world is left to mourn the loss of a talented and promising young boxer.
His death serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers and uncertainties of the sport, and the importance of prioritizing fighter safety and well-being.
In the words of the GBA statement, “Death is indeed unknown, and you never know where it will catch up with you.
May the soul of Gabriel Oluwasengu and all other boxers who died in similar circumstances rest in perfect peace.”
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