The National Sports Authority (NSA) of Ghana has announced the suspension of all boxing activities across the country following the tragic deaths of two boxers within six months. The decision comes after Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey, a Ghanaian super-middleweight fighter, died days after collapsing in the ring during his September 12 bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. His death was the second fatality in the sport this year, sparking urgent calls for reform in Ghana’s boxing industry.
In March, Nigerian boxer Gabriel “Success” Olanrewaju also lost his life after a similar incident during a fight at the same arena. Both deaths have cast a shadow over Ghanaian boxing, a sport that has produced world champions but is now under intense scrutiny. The suspension is aimed at protecting the lives of athletes and restoring public confidence in the safety of the sport.
According to the NSA, the nationwide ban on boxing will remain in place until thorough investigations are conducted into the circumstances surrounding both fatalities. Authorities also plan to review existing regulations, medical protocols, and technical standards to ensure that boxers’ health and safety remain a top priority. Officials emphasized that the deaths revealed gaps in medical screening, fight scheduling, and regulatory oversight.
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation, working alongside the NSA, has also announced the creation of a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee the sport during the suspension. This committee will be tasked with implementing a five-year safety and development plan designed to reform Ghanaian boxing from grassroots to professional level.
One of the key focus areas under review is the adequacy of medical checks before and after fights. Reports suggest that frequent bouts within short periods may have placed additional strain on boxers, increasing the risk of collapse. Promoters and regulators are also expected to face stricter monitoring to ensure compliance with safety protocols going forward.
The ban has sparked mixed reactions within the sporting community. While some promoters fear financial losses, many boxing enthusiasts and health experts believe the suspension is necessary to safeguard athletes. Stakeholders argue that without stronger medical supervision, the sport could face more tragedies that would damage its reputation further.
Ghana, a country with a good boxing history and a reputation for producing champions, now faces the challenge of balancing tradition with modern safety standards. Sports analysts warn that unless reforms are enforced, the suspension could weaken the boxing industry and discourage upcoming talents from pursuing the sport.
For now, all eyes remain on the NSA and the Ministry of Sports as they work to rebuild trust in boxing. The fans await a safer, more regulated return of the sport that has recorded lots of success in Ghana.
