Tragic Suspension of Boxing in Ghana Following Fatal Incident

Tue Oct 21 2025 07:34:16 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Boxing activities in Ghana have been suspended after the sudden death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest Akushey, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the sport.

The Ghanaian boxing community is in mourning following the death of Ernest Akushey, also known as Bahubali, just 11 days after a match. The National Sports Authority has declared a suspension of all boxing activities to prioritize athlete safety, as discussions about improving standards in the sport gain momentum.

All boxing activities in Ghana have been suspended following the death of super-middleweight Ernest Akushey, 11 days post-bout in Accra.

Ernest Akushey, known as Bahubali, died at the age of 32 on Tuesday, with preliminary indications suggesting his passing may be linked to internal injuries sustained during his recent fight against Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena on September 12.

The National Sports Authority described this nationwide suspension as a necessary step to protect lives and uphold the integrity of the sport. Alongside this suspension, authorities announced intentions to implement a five-year strategy aimed at establishing safer, more professional, and globally aligned standards for boxing.

This incident has reignited discussions about safety protocols within the boxing community, especially following the death of another professional fighter, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a match in March. These recent tragedies have raised alarms regarding the well-being of athletes in a sport that holds immense popularity in Ghana, known for producing legends like Azumah Nelson.