Adoa News Adoa News
Related Articles
The National Sports Authority (NSA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has announced the immediate suspension of all boxing activities in Ghana following the tragic death of professional boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey.
In a statement released on Thursday, the NSA described the decision as a reflection of its unwavering commitment — along with that of the Ministry — to prioritise the health, safety, and welfare of athletes.
“Together with our partners, we remain committed to guiding the safe, responsible, and sustainable return of boxing in Ghana,” the NSA assured.
According to the statement, comprehensive reforms had already been prepared based on the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee on Boxing. These include the implementation of a five-year safety and development plan, with a key component being the establishment of a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee the sport.
The NSA explained that the suspension will provide time to strengthen medical, technical, and regulatory protocols, ensuring that boxing in Ghana returns under safer, more professional, and globally aligned standards.
Recent Tragedies Prompt Reform
This latest decision comes in the wake of two recent tragedies that have rocked the Ghanaian and West African boxing communities.
In March 2025, Segun “Success” Olanrewaju, a former West African light-heavyweight champion, collapsed and died during a boxing match at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. The 40-year-old Nigerian veteran was competing in an undercard bout during Fight Night 15 of Ghana’s Professional Boxing League when he lost consciousness mid-fight.
Now, just months later, the death of Ernest Akushey, known affectionately in boxing circles as “Bahubali,” has further highlighted concerns surrounding athlete safety and regulatory oversight in the sport.
The NSA and the Ministry have called on all stakeholders — including promoters, coaches, athletes, supporters, and the media — to respect the suspension. They acknowledged that the directive may bring immediate challenges but insisted that it is necessary to save lives, protect the integrity of the sport, and ensure its long-term future.
Looking Ahead
While no timeline has yet been given for the resumption of boxing activities, officials emphasised that the pause is not a shutdown but a reset — one aimed at protecting lives and elevating the standards of the sport across the country.
The coming months are expected to see consultations and policy implementation spearheaded by the new Interim Management Committee, as Ghana works toward a safer, more regulated boxing ecosystem.
