The unfortunate death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who passed away at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital after collapsing after a professional fight in Accra, has been verified by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA).
The GBA confirmed the incident’s circumstances in a statement issued by Mohammed Amin Lamptey, Director of Communications.
Imax Boxing Promotions’ Bel 7-Star Energy Drink Professional Boxing League (Week 15) featured an eight-round light heavyweight bout between Olanrewaju and Jon Mbanugu of Ghana.
Despite having a good start, he lost the fight without being punched in Round 3 (2:46 minutes in).
The fight was promptly broken up by referee Richard Amevi, and after receiving emergency treatment from ringside medics and paramedics, he was taken to Korle Bu, where he was declared dead 30 minutes later.
Overseeing the required procedures, GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye coordinated with NBBC General Secretary Remi Abodorin and reported the event to the Korle Bu Police.
While authorities await an official autopsy report to ascertain the cause of death, the body has been moved to the main mortuary.
Official notification has been sent to Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister of Sports and Recreation.
Prior to the fight, Olanrewaju had a medical clearance from the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBC) and was in possession of a recognized professional license. His official record was 23 bouts, 13 victories (12 via knockout), and 8 defeats.
Although the precise cause is still unknown, early findings point to the possibility that he was put into an induced coma.
The GBA has acknowledged the dangers of boxing and prayed for the safety of all boxers, sending its condolences to the NBBC, the boxer’s family, and the boxing community worldwide.
Source: newsthemegh.com