Nigerian lightweight boxer Gabriel Oluwaseun Olanrewaju, known as “Success,” tragically passed away after collapsing during a bout against Ghanaian boxer Jonathan Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
The fight, held on Saturday, March 29, was part of the Ghana Professional Boxing League’s Fight Night 15.
The Incident
The eight-round contest ended abruptly when Olanrewaju collapsed after being hit with a right hand from Mbanugu. Moments earlier, Olanrewaju had landed two weak punches before staggering backward, falling against the ropes, and collapsing.
His corner team and medical personnel rushed to assist him, but despite being transported to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, he was pronounced dead. The shocking incident has deeply affected the boxing community.
Olanrewaju’s Career
The 40-year-old Lagos-based boxer began his professional career in 2019 and held both Nigerian and West African light-heavyweight titles during his career.
Despite his early successes, he had been on a four-fight losing streak leading up to the bout and had lost all his fights outside Nigeria. His professional record stood at 13 wins (12 by knockout), 9 losses, and 2 draws.
Tributes have poured in for Olanrewaju, who was respected for his contributions to Nigerian boxing.
The Ghana Boxing Authority has not yet commented on the incident.
