Ghana’s boxing community is in mourning and has suspended all related activities following the death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest Akushey at the age of 32.
Akushey, known to many as Bahubali, passed away on Tuesday. While the precise cause of his death is still under investigation, initial reports suggest it may be linked to internal injuries sustained during his recent fight.
He competed against Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on September 12th. Following the incident, the National Sports Authority has implemented a nationwide suspension, calling it a “necessary step” to prioritize safety, uphold the sport’s integrity, and secure its future.
Authorities are also developing a five-year plan to enhance boxing standards, aiming for greater safety and alignment with international best practices. This unfortunate event comes just six months after another professional boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, tragically passed away in Accra following a bout.
Boxing remains a highly popular sport in Ghana, having produced numerous world-class athletes, including the celebrated former two-weight world champion Azumah Nelson.