Nigerian light-heavyweight boxer Gabriel Oluwaseun Olanrewaju, known by his ring name “Success,” tragically passed away following a bout against Ghana’s Jonathan Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday, March 29.
Olanrewaju, 40, collapsed in the ring shortly after a right-hand punch from Mbanugu, who holds both Ghanaian and Nigerian parentage. The fight, a special feature on the Ghana Professional Boxing League fight night, was initially scheduled for eight rounds.
After landing a couple of weak punches, Olanrewaju staggered back and fell against the ropes. As the referee initiated a mandatory count, Olanrewaju collapsed onto his side, before turning face down with his throat pressed against the ropes. His corner team rushed to his aid, attempting to revive him while emergency medical personnel were called.
The boxer was swiftly transported to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, but was later pronounced dead.
Olanrewaju, who made his professional debut in 2019, had a career record of 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, with 12 of his victories coming by knockout. Before his final bout, he was on a four-fight losing streak, having suffered defeats in Russia and Nigeria. His death has sent shockwaves through the boxing community.
The tragic incident has left the boxing world mourning the loss of a dedicated athlete.
Source:TheDotNews