Tragedy struck the boxing world when Nigerian light-heavyweight boxer, Gabriel Oluwaseun Olanrewaju, nicknamed “Success,” succumbed to injuries sustained during a bout against Ghana’s Jonathan Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena. The shocking incident occurred on Saturday, March 29, during the Bel 7 Star Professional Boxing League fight night.
The ill-fated contest was halted abruptly when Olanrewaju crumpled to the canvas after exchanging blows with Mbanugu, who boasts an impressive record of 12 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with 12 knockouts. The Nigerian boxer had landed two feeble punches before Mbanugu retaliated with a devastating right-hand blow, sending Olanrewaju stumbling backward.
As the referee initiated the mandatory count, Olanrewaju’s condition rapidly deteriorated. He slumped onto his side, his throat wedged against the ropes, prompting his corner team to rush to his aid. Despite frantic attempts to resuscitate him, Olanrewaju struggled to breathe and was swiftly transported to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The boxing community is reeling from the loss of the 40-year-old Lagos-based boxer, who made his professional debut in 2019. Olanrewaju’s record stood at 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, with 12 of his victories secured via knockout. His demise has sent shockwaves through the sport, with the Ghana Boxing Authority yet to issue a statement on the matter.
