On March 31, 2025, the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) revealed that Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, the Nigerian boxer who tragically passed away in Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, had not received official approval for the fight in which he lost his life. His original match, scheduled for Friday, was canceled after Olanrewaju failed to meet the weight requirement.
The 40-year-old, a former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, collapsed during his fight against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League, which took place at the Bukom Boxing Arena, Accra, on Saturday.
Reports state that Olanrewaju was ahead on points in the eight-round light-heavyweight contest against Mbanugu, also known as “Jon Power,” who has a record of 12 wins, one loss, and one draw, including 12 knockouts.
The tragedy unfolded rapidly: Olanrewaju landed two weak punches before Mbanugu struck back with a right-hand blow to the Nigerian’s face. After a brief pause, Olanrewaju staggered backward, collapsed against the ropes, and fell to the ground, leaving the crowd in shock.
As the referee began the mandatory count, Olanrewaju fell face-down, with his throat resting against the ropes. His team quickly entered the ring, removed his gum shield, and attempted to revive him. Despite immediate efforts by medical personnel, Olanrewaju was rushed to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Remi Aboderin, the Secretary-General of the NBBofC, said that Olanrewaju had been initially cleared to fight in Ghana on Friday, but the match was called off after he weighed in over the limit. Olanrewaju was informed that his opponent was not in his weight class, and the organizers offered an additional $500 for the bout. However, Olanrewaju declined, as he believed it was insufficient compensation.
Aboderin further explained that another Nigerian boxer fought that Friday, and on the morning of Saturday, Olanrewaju expressed to his coach his inability to return home to Nigeria without money to settle his debts. Faced with financial pressures, he opted to take another fight, even though it was not formally approved by the NBBofC.
The NBBofC secretary added that, desperate for money to clear his debts, Olanrewaju returned to Ghana to fight, despite lacking official authorization from the boxing board.
Coach Babatunde Ojo, who had trained Olanrewaju, had warned him against fighting on such short notice, advising him to wait for a better opportunity. Despite Ojo’s concerns, Olanrewaju went ahead with the fight.
Ojo expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss, emphasizing the risks associated with short-notice fights and the importance of adequate preparation in boxing.
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