How Segun Olanrewaju Nigerian Boxer Died During Fight in Ghana

Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, a National and West African light-heavyweight champion, has passed away after collapsing during a boxing match in Ghana on Saturday, March 29.

Olanrewaju ‘Success’ the Boxer

Olanrewaju, 40, was a Lagos-based boxer who turned professional in 2019. He won his debut fight against Jimoh Najeem on July 30, 2019, securing two more victories before suffering his first loss to Durodola Olanrewaju via a fourth-round technical knockout.

At the time of his final bout, he was on a four-fight losing streak, having suffered defeats to Russia’s Savely Sadoma, Ibragim Estemirov, Muibi Lekan, and Rashid Idowu. He had also lost all eight of his fights outside Nigeria—six in Russia and two in Ghana. His professional record stood at 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, with 12 of his victories coming by knockout.

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), which sanctioned the fight, has yet to comment on the tragedy.

What Happened to Segun Olanrewaju

The fight, which was part of the Bel 7 Star Professional Boxing League at the Bukom Boxing Arena, featured Olanrewaju against Ghanaian-Nigerian boxer Jonathan Mbanugu (also known as “Jon Power”). Mbanugu entered the fight with a record of 12 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with all 12 victories by knockout.

The scheduled eight-round contest took a tragic turn within seconds. Olanrewaju landed two weak punches before Mbanugu countered with a right hand to his face. Almost immediately, Olanrewaju staggered backward, fell against the ropes, and collapsed, shocking the crowd.

As the referee began the mandatory count, the Nigerian boxer lay motionless, his throat resting against the ropes. His corner team rushed in, removed his gum shield, and attempted to resuscitate him. Despite swift intervention by the emergency medical team, he was transported to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Other Tragic Boxing Incidents

Olanrewaju’s death is a painful reminder of past boxing tragedies involving Nigerian fighters.

• Chukwuemeka Igboanugo (2022 National Sports Festival, Asaba, Nigeria)
  Competing in the 86kg category for Imo State, Igboanugo collapsed after being knocked out by Prince Gaby Amagor of Anambra State. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead. Officials suggested an underlying health condition may have contributed.
  
• Sherif Lawal (2024, London, England)
  On May 14, 2024, London-based Nigerian boxer Sherif Lawal collapsed in the fourth round of his professional debut against Malam Varela at Harrow Leisure Centre. Despite prompt medical intervention, including CPR and defibrillation, he was pronounced dead at Northwick Park Hospital.
  
• Asymin Mustapha (1982, England)
  Known as “Young Ali,” Mustapha’s promising career ended in tragedy. Facing Barry McGuigan, he was knocked out in the sixth round and lapsed into a coma. He never regained consciousness, passing away while his wife was pregnant.