Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, a talented Nigerian boxer, tragically died on Saturday after collapsing during a light heavyweight fight in Ghana, raising serious concerns over the safety of athletes in the sport.
Details of the Incident
Oluwasegun was competing at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu when he lost consciousness in the third round. Despite appearing to dominate the bout initially, he suddenly collapsed without being directly struck by his opponent. The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) reported that paramedics attempted to resuscitate him ringside before transporting him to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead approximately 30 minutes after arrival.
Reactions from the Boxing Community
The GBA expressed profound sorrow over Oluwasegun’s death, mourning the loss of „a potential world beater” who was performing impressively in the ring. They noted that an official cause of death is pending an autopsy, although the situation has been described as an „induced coma.” Remi Aboderin, the general secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board Control, labeled Oluwasegun a „fearless” fighter and a „ring warrior,” stating, „We are really devastated. This is not something we envisaged.”
Background and Record
Before his untimely demise, Oluwasegun had an official boxing record of 23 fights, boasting 13 victories and eight defeats. He was a former national and West African champion in the light heavyweight division. He had been declared „medically fit” for the fight by the Nigeria Boxing Board Control prior to competing in Ghana.
Broader Concerns in Boxing
Oluwasegun’s death is not an isolated incident; at least six other boxers have succumbed to injuries sustained in the ring since February 2024. This alarming trend has prompted calls from organizations, including the World Boxing Organization, for enhanced safety measures and rigorous testing protocols to protect fighters. The GBA has committed to working with officials in the investigation surrounding Oluwasegun’s death.
A Tribute to Oluwasegun
In a heartfelt message, Kofi Iddie Adams, Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, extended condolences to Oluwasegun’s family, friends, and the broader boxing community. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of boxing and how the loss of such a competitor is felt deeply by all who love the sport.
The boxing world continues to grapple with the implications of this tragedy, calling for necessary reforms to ensure the health and safety of athletes in the ring.
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