Tragic: Nigerian Boxer Segun Olanrewaju Dies During Bout in Ghana

Former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, Olanrewaju “Success” Segun, tragically passed away during a boxing match in Ghana on Saturday evening, Sports247 reports.

Olanrewaju lost consciousness during a bout against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League, held at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

Despite efforts to revive him, the 40 year old succumbed to his injuries, ending his professional boxing career on the tragic note.

Success had a total of 24 professional career fights, he won 13, and lost 8 of his fights with three ended in draws.

This unfortunate incident adds to the growing list of Nigerian boxers who have lost their lives during matches in recent years.

In December 2022, during the National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta State, a boxer representing Imo State, Chukwuemeka Igboanugo, collapsed after receiving a punch to the chin from his opponent, Prince Gaby Amagor of Anambra State, in the 86kg category. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to the hospital, he was pronounced dead.

Similarly, in July 2022, another young Nigerian boxer reportedly passed away after being paired against an opponent above his weight class.

These tragic occurrences raise serious concerns about match pairing and safety protocols in boxing.

They underscore the urgent need for stringent safety measures and proper match arrangements to prevent such devastating losses.

May their souls rest in peace.