Ghana has announced plans to investigate the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Segun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a professional bout in Accra.
Olanrewaju was competing against Ghanaian opponent Jon Mbanugu during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at the Bukom Boxing Arena on March 29 when he collapsed in the third round.
He was immediately taken to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
In response, Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, stated that an investigative committee would be formed to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Speaking on Ghanaian radio station Sporty FM, Adams assured the public that the probe would be thorough and transparent.
“It is only through an investigation that we can determine if all the necessary fight protocols were followed, including ringside safety measures and the presence of paramedics,” Adams said. “We need to institute a committee to look into what happened, and I assure everyone that nothing will be covered up.”
The investigation follows allegations of negligence by Remi Aboderin, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), who claimed that the fight did not adhere to proper boxing regulations.
Olanrewaju, a former West African and national light-heavyweight champion, had a professional record of 24 fights, with 13 wins, eight losses, and three draws.
His sudden death has sparked concerns over boxer safety and regulatory standards in professional boxing.
