All boxing activities in Ghana have been suspended following the death of a super-middleweight boxer just 11 days after a bout in Accra.
Ernest Akushey, popularly known as Bahubali, died at the age of 32. While the exact cause of death is still under investigation, preliminary reports indicate that it might be related to internal injuries sustained during his last fight.
Akushey fought Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena on September 12, and his passing has sparked a nationwide suspension as deemed necessary by the National Sports Authority. They stated this action is crucial to protect lives, uphold the integrity of the sport and ensure its future.
Authorities have outlined a five-year strategy aimed at establishing safer and more professional standards for boxing in the country. This unfortunate incident marks the second death of a professional fighter in Ghana within just six months, reigniting discussions about safety protocols in the sport.
Earlier this year, in March, Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju collapsed during a match in Accra and subsequently died after being rushed to the hospital. The prominence of boxing in Ghana is well-known, having produced many revered figures, including the legendary former two-weight world champion Azumah Nelson.
