The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic death of Nigerian fighter Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who passed away shortly after collapsing in the ring on Saturday.

The 40-year-old was competing against John Mbangu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana, when he suffered a serious incident during the third round of their bout.

A former national and West African light-heavyweight champion, Olanrewaju lost consciousness and received immediate medical attention at the scene. He was then rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.

Olanrewaju had an extensive professional career, fighting 23 times and securing 13 victories—12 of which came via knockout. Most of his bouts took place in his homeland, though he also competed in Russia on five occasions.

Ghana Boxing Authority Responds to Tragedy

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) released an official statement addressing the incident:

"Oluwasegun was declared medically fit by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, with his certification as a professional boxer, before the GBA sanctioned and approved the international contest."

"A few seconds before the end of round three, Oluwasegun stepped back and leaned against the ropes without receiving a punch from his opponent. Sensing danger, referee Richard Amevi immediately ended the fight and summoned the ringside physician, with paramedics from the National Ambulance Service providing urgent assistance in an attempt to resuscitate him."

The GBA confirmed that its president had reported the incident to the Korle Bu Police Station and formally informed the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr Kofi Iddie Adams.

Tributes Pour in from Boxing Officials

The General Secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Remi Aboderin, expressed his devastation over the tragic loss, describing Olanrewaju as a "fearless ring warrior."

"This is not something we ever envisaged," Aboderin told BBC Sport Africa. "We will live up to our responsibility and ensure we stand by the family during this difficult time."

Local reports suggest that Olanrewaju may have suffered a cardiac arrest, although an official cause of death has yet to be confirmed.