Ghana Halts Boxing Activities Following Death of Boxer Ernest Akushey

Fri Oct 10 2025 14:00:57 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a tragic incident, boxing in Ghana has been suspended after the death of professional boxer Ernest Akushey, known as Bahubali, at the age of 32. The suspension aims to reassess safety standards in the sport.

The National Sports Authority has suspended all boxing activities in Ghana following the death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest Akushey, who passed away 11 days after a match. This marks the second death of a professional boxer in just six months, leading to concerns about safety in the sport. Authorities are planning a five-year strategy to improve standards and enhance safety for fighters.

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 aged 32 on Tuesday. While the exact cause of death is yet to be determined, preliminary indications suggest it may be linked to internal injuries sustained during his recent fight.

Akushey faced Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena in the Ghanaian capital on September 12.

In a statement, the National Sports Authority described the nationwide suspension as a necessary step to protect lives, uphold the integrity of the sport, and ensure its future.

Authorities have also announced plans to implement a five-year strategy aimed at establishing safer, more professional, and globally-aligned standards for boxing.

This incident marks the second death of a professional fighter in Ghana within six months, reigniting discussions about safety standards. In March, a Nigerian boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, died after collapsing in a match against a Ghanaian opponent in Accra.

Boxing enjoys immense popularity in Ghana and has produced numerous big names, including the legendary former two-weight world champion Azumah Nelson.