Tragedy strikes at Ghana Professional Boxing League Fight Night
Nigerian boxer Gabriel Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju tragically died after collapsing in the ring during a bout against Ghanaian fighter Jon Mbanugu at Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
Olanrewaju, who was reportedly leading the match, collapsed mid-fight and was rushed to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The shocking incident has raised serious concerns among boxing enthusiasts, fans, and officials, including the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control, over what led to the boxer’s death.
Controversy Surrounding the Fight
There are conflicting reports surrounding the circumstances of the bout. Some claim Olanrewaju was asked to throw the fight on Friday, which he refused. Others suggest he requested extra payment due to financial hardship, but wasn’t offered any—until he was reportedly promised compensation and returned the following day.
Widow Debunks Allegations
His widow, Adebusola Olanrewaju, dismissed rumors of financial distress. Speaking to Nigerian news outlet The Punch, she revealed that the late boxer had bought a bus to begin a commercial transport business upon his return from Ghana.
She described her husband as humble, hardworking, and determined, saying:
He was a strong man. He tried to grow his career but was often ignored… He never agreed to lose. He believed in himself.”
Adebusola recounted their last conversation, in which Olanrewaju revealed the pressure to lose the match:
He told us they said he would have to lose… but he said he came there to boost his career.”
She last spoke to him after 11 p.m. on the night of the fight. The next morning, she learned he had died.
In an emotional appeal, Adebusola requested support to raise their two children, expressing her grief:
“Please help me. I don’t have money to take care of them. I don’t know what to tell my children.”
An autopsy is underway to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, questions remain over the Ghana Boxing Association’s oversight and the event promoters’ responsibilities in ensuring fighter safety.
Source: Pulse