TRAGIC: Nigerian Boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju Passes Away After Tragic In-Ring Collapse

The boxing community is mourning the tragic loss of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who passed away after collapsing in the ring during a bout against Ghana’s John Mbanugu. The heartbreaking incident occurred on Saturday night, March 29, 2025, at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana.

Olanrewaju, a 40-year-old veteran of the sport, was competing in an undercard bout of Ghana’s Professional Boxing League when he suddenly collapsed in the third round of the scheduled eight-round contest. Witnesses report that just 15 seconds before the round's end, the boxer stumbled and fell to the canvas, prompting immediate medical intervention.

Despite the rapid response from ringside doctors, efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Initial medical assessments suggest that cardiac arrest may have been the cause of his sudden collapse, though an official autopsy is yet to be conducted.

The tragic loss of Olanrewaju has reignited discussions about the safety of professional boxing, with many calling for stricter medical checks and improved emergency response protocols at boxing events. Fans, fellow boxers, and sports officials have taken to social media to pay tribute to the fallen fighter, remembering him for his resilience and passion for the sport.

As the boxing world grapples with this loss, arrangements are being made for Olanrewaju’s final rites, with family members and sports authorities in Nigeria expected to provide further updates in the coming days.