In brief
All boxing activities in Ghana have been suspended after the recent death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest Akushey, who passed away shortly after a match in Accra. This incident marks the second death of a professional fighter in Ghana within six months, intensifying calls for improved safety regulations within the sport. The National Sports Authority has indicated plans to implement a strategic framework to ensure safer boxing practices and uphold the integrity of the sport.
All boxing activities in Ghana have been suspended following the death of a super-middleweight 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 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 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 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.
