Ghana Boxing Authority details the tragic passing of Nigerian Boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju

The Communications Director of the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), Mohammed Aminu Lamptey, shared details about the death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju. Olanrewaju collapsed during a boxing match on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The event took place at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.

Olanrewaju was fighting Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu in an eight-round contest. According to Lamptey, Olanrewaju was performing well and seemed in control. He won the first round and led in the second. He continued to dominate until the tragic incident occurred in the third round.

Lamptey noted that Olanrewaju was an experienced boxer with 23 professional fights. He had 13 wins, including 12 by knockout, two draws, and eight losses. His skill and durability made this incident even more shocking.

Lamptey clarified that Olanrewaju's collapse was not due to a direct punch. “It wasn’t a knockout,” he said. Both fighters were actively exchanging punches when Olanrewaju suddenly stepped back and collapsed against the ropes.

Initially, the referee treated it as a standard knockdown and began counting. However, he quickly realized something was wrong. The referee noticed that Olanrewaju wasn’t responding normally and called for medical assistance.

Medical personnel rushed in to provide first aid and partially resuscitated him. They then decided to transport him to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for further treatment.

At the hospital, doctors worked hard to stabilize him while GBA officials awaited updates on his condition. Sadly, despite their efforts, Olanrewaju passed away just 30 minutes after arriving at the hospital.

Lamptey confirmed that Olanrewaju's body has been taken to the morgue for an autopsy. This will occur once the GBA receives the necessary police report.