All boxing activities in Ghana have been suspended following the death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest Akushey at the age of 32. Akushey, known as Bahubali, passed away on Tuesday, 11 days after his recent fight in Accra.
The exact cause of his death is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest it may be related to internal injuries sustained during his bout against Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena on September 12th.
The National Sports Authority has declared the nationwide suspension a crucial measure to safeguard lives, preserve the sport’s integrity, and secure its future. In response to this somber event, authorities are also developing a five-year plan to enhance boxing safety, professionalism, and align it with international standards.
This unfortunate incident follows another tragic event in March, where Nigerian fighter Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju also lost his life in Accra after collapsing during a match against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu. These events have intensified the focus on safety protocols within the sport.
Boxing holds a significant place in Ghana’s sporting culture, having produced legendary champions like the former two-weight world champion Azumah Nelson. The sport’s continued popularity highlights the need for robust safety measures to protect its athletes.