The boxing community is mourning the untimely death of Nigerian boxer Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a match in Ghana on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The tragic incident occurred at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League.
Olanrewaju, a former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, was competing against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu when he suddenly lost consciousness in the third round of their scheduled eight-round bout.
Sponsored Ad
Eyewitnesses reported that Olanrewaju was ahead on points before the incident. A video circulating on social media captures the moment he collapsed in the ring, prompting immediate medical attention. Despite efforts to revive him, the 40-year-old was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
Olanrewaju, based in Lagos, Nigeria, had a professional boxing career spanning 24 fights, with 13 wins (12 by knockout), 9 losses, and 2 draws. He held both National and West African light-heavyweight titles during his career. His recent bouts included a four-fight losing streak, with defeats to Russia’s Savely Sadoma, Ibragim Estemirov, Muibi Lekan, and Rashid Idowu. His last fight before the tragic incident was on December 24, 2024, against Idowu Raheed at the Campos Mini Stadium in Lagos.
The Ghana Boxing Authority, which sanctioned the bout, has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Olanrewaju’s death has reignited discussions about safety measures in the sport across the region.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, fans, and sports officials, remembering Olanrewaju for his dedication and impact on boxing in Nigeria and across West Africa.