26.9.2025
Ghana’s National Sports Authority has suspended all boxing activities after Ernest Akushey, also known as Bahubali, died aged 32 after a bout.
Bahubali died 11 days after a super-middleweight a bout against Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Banku boxing arena in Accra September 12.
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.
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 the space of six months, reigniting discussions about safety standards.
In March, Nigeria’s Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju collapsed while taking on Ghanaian opponent Jon Mbanugu, also in Accra, and died soon after being rushed to hospital.
Boxing enjoys immense popularity in Ghana and has produced numerous big names, including the legendary former two-weight world champion Azumah Nelson. With BBC reports
Bahubali...another death in the ring.