Boxing in Ghana has been suspended indefinitely following the heartbreaking death of professional super middleweight fighter Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey.
According reports on Friday, the 32 year old passed away on September 23, 2025, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, 11 days after sustaining critical injuries during a fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
This is the second professional boxing fatality in Ghana within half a year. In March, Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju also died after a bout in Accra.
The National Sports Authority (NSA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, announced the suspension with immediate effect, stressing that the safety of athletes remains the top priority.
“The National Sports Authority (NSA), in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, has, with immediate effect, suspended all boxing activities in Ghana.
This decision follows the tragic passing of professional boxer Ernest ‘Bahubali’ Akushey after his most recent bout. It reflects the joint commitment of the NSA and the Sports Ministry to prioritise the safety, health, and welfare of athletes,” the statement read.
The NSA also disclosed that a five-year safety and development plan had already been prepared to enhance medical, technical, and regulatory standards in Ghana’s boxing sector, aligning them with international requirements. A nine member Interim Management Committee will oversee the reforms.
