By Parrot Newspaper 
Nigerian Boxer Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju Dies After Collapsing in Ghanaian Boxing Match
Tragedy in the Ring: Nigerian Boxing Community Mourns
The boxing world has been hit with a devastating loss following the sudden death of 40-year-old Nigerian fighter, Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju. The former National and West African light-heavyweight champion collapsed in the ring during a professional boxing match in Ghana and was later pronounced dead, leaving fans, fellow fighters, and the entire combat sports community in shock.
Final Bout Ends in Heartbreak
Olanrewaju was facing Ghanaian boxer John Mbanugu, popularly known as “Power,” in an undercard bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra as part of Ghana’s Professional Boxing League on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The highly anticipated fight was expected to be a comeback opportunity for the Nigerian veteran, but it turned tragic when he suddenly crumpled to the canvas during the third round.
Eyewitnesses and video footage from the event reveal both fighters engaging in an intense exchange of punches when, with just 15 seconds left in the round, Olanrewaju staggered and collapsed. The referee immediately halted the bout and called for medical assistance.
Medical Response and Cause of Death
Medical personnel rushed to the ring in an attempt to revive the fallen fighter, but despite their swift intervention, Olanrewaju was declared dead at the scene. Initial reports suggest that he may have suffered a cardiac arrest, though a full autopsy is expected to provide definitive confirmation.
This incident has reignited discussions on boxer safety, medical preparedness at fight venues, and the physical toll of prolonged careers in combat sports.
A Storied Career with Highs and Lows
Olanrewaju was no stranger to the Nigerian boxing scene, earning respect as a formidable fighter in the light-heavyweight division. According to BoxRec, he had an extensive career, competing in 23 professional fights. He secured 13 victories—12 of them by knockout—demonstrating his fearsome punching power. However, he also suffered eight losses and recorded two draws.
His career trajectory, however, had been on a decline in recent years. Struggling with form and possibly the wear and tear of an aging fighter, he endured four consecutive losses before his tragic demise. His last recorded bout was a defeat to fellow Nigerian fighter Idowu Raheed on December 24, 2024, at Lagos’ Campos Mini Stadium.
Boxing’s Dangers and the Call for Enhanced Safety Measures
The passing of Olanrewaju has once again drawn attention to the dangers associated with professional boxing. While the sport is known for its physical intensity, incidents like this raise concerns over medical screenings, corner stoppages, and whether aging fighters should be allowed to compete without stricter health regulations.
Cardiac-related deaths in boxing, though rare, have been documented in cases where undiagnosed heart conditions, dehydration, and extreme weight cuts played a role. Experts have long advocated for pre-fight medical examinations to be more rigorous, including advanced cardiovascular tests to detect underlying conditions that could pose fatal risks.
Tributes Pour In for a Fallen Warrior
Following the heartbreaking news, tributes have flooded in from Nigeria’s boxing community and beyond. Promoters, fellow fighters, and fans have expressed their grief and paid respects to a man who dedicated his life to the sport.
The Nigerian Boxing Federation released a statement mourning Olanrewaju’s loss and calling for improved safety measures in professional boxing. “We have lost a warrior, a fighter who carried the Nigerian flag with pride,” the statement read. “His contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.”
Fans have also taken to social media to celebrate his legacy, posting clips of his greatest knockouts and sharing memories of his inspiring journey in the ring.
The Legacy of Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju
Despite the tragedy, Olanrewaju’s impact on Nigerian boxing remains undeniable. He inspired upcoming fighters with his relentless spirit and never-say-die attitude. His journey from Lagos to the top of the West African boxing circuit showcased the resilience and determination that define champions.
This tragic event underscores the importance of fighter safety and will likely lead to renewed discussions on policies surrounding boxing regulations. Rest in peace, champion.