Nigerian boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju collapses, dies during fight in Ghana

Former West African Light Heavyweight Champion Gabriel Olanrewaju has died after collapsing during a fight in Ghana.

According to multiple Ghanaian news reports, the 40-year-old Nigerian boxer was competing against John Mbagunu, known as Power, at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday, 29 March 2025, when he suddenly collapsed in the ring.

Olanrewaju had reportedly dominated the early rounds, but in the third round (at 2 minutes and 46 seconds), he unexpectedly leaned on the ropes without receiving a punch from his opponent. Referee Richard Amevi immediately halted the fight and called for medical assistance.

Officials initially assumed it was a routine knockdown but quickly realised he was in distress. Ringside physicians and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service administered first aid before rushing him to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.

In a statement confirming the incident, Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) President Abraham Kotei said the matter had been reported to Korle Bu Police Station, and Olanrewaju’s body had been moved to the main mortuary for preservation. He added that Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, had also been notified.

Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, also known as Success, was a Nigerian professional boxer born on 8 December 1993 in Lagos, Nigeria. Standing at 6'1" (185 cm) with an orthodox stance, he began his professional boxing career in 2019.

Over the course of his career, he participated in 23 professional bouts, securing 13 wins, 12 of them by knockout.

Olanrewaju’s career featured several notable bouts, including a third-round TKO victory over Adewale Masebinu in 2019 and a first-round TKO against Chukwuma Igwe in 2022.

In 2020, he fought for the African Cruiserweight Title against Olanrewaju Durodola, demonstrating his ambition and competitive spirit.

Beyond the ring, he remained deeply connected to his family and community in Lagos, often attributing his success to their unwavering support.