THE boxing world is mourning the loss of another fighter following the death of 40-year-old Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju. The Nigerian light-heavyweight tragically passed away on Saturday, March 29, during an eight-round bout against John Mbangu, 12-1-1, (12 KOs), at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana.
The fight had completed two rounds when tragedy struck in the third. According to a report from msn.com, ‘Both boxers had been fiercely trading punches when Olanrewaju stumbled and collapsed with just 15 seconds remaining in the round.’ Moments earlier, Olanrewaju landed a pair of uppercuts, while Mbangu missed with a right hand before lightly connecting with a follow-up shot. However, this did not appear to knock Olanrewaju down. A second or two later, he staggered backward, collapsed, and landed on the bottom rope. It was immediately evident that something was seriously wrong. Referee Richard Amevi rushed to Olanrewaju’s side and signaled for medical assistance.
Despite efforts by medical personnel to revive him, Olanrewaju was pronounced dead shortly after his collapse. Preliminary reports suggest that a cardiac arrest may have been the cause of death, though an official determination is still pending as the investigation continues.
The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) issued a statement addressing the incident. “Oluwasegun was declared medically fit by the Nigeria Boxing Board Control with his certification as a professional boxer before the GBA sanctioned and approved the international contest.
“Oluwasegun, a few seconds before the end of round 3, stepped back during the fight and leaned on the ropes with his back without any punch whatsoever from his opponent. The referee, Richard Amevi, sensing danger, waved his hand for the end of the fight and immediately invited the ringside physician with the support of paramedics from the national ambulance service to attend to the boxer to help resuscitate him.
“The GBA President reported the incident to the Korle Bu Police Station. The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr Kofi Iddie Adams, was formally informed by the GBA President of the unfortunate incident.”
Olanrewaju, nicknamed “Success,” made his professional debut on July 30, 2019, according to BoxRec. Standing at 6ft 1ins, the light-heavyweight compiled a record of 13 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws over 23 fights. In 2020, he faced 2008 Olympian and former cruiserweight world title contender Olanrewaju Durodola but retired in the fourth round. On Christmas Eve 2021, he captured the Nigerian Light-Heavyweight title, and on September 3, 2023, he added the West African Boxing Union title to his achievements.
Everyone at Boxing News extends heartfelt condolences to Olanrewaju’s family and friends during this difficult time.
