Nigerian light-heavyweight boxer Gabriel Oluwaseun Olanrewaju, popularly known as “Success,” has sadly passed away after a sudden collapse during his match against Ghanaian fighter Jonathan Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, March 29, as part of the Ghana Professional Boxing League fight night.

Shocking Turn of Events in the Ring

The light-heavyweight bout, scheduled for eight rounds, took an unexpected and devastating turn within moments. Olanrewaju exchanged a few weak punches before Mbanugu—also known as “Jon Power” and boasting a record of 12 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with all 12 victories coming by knockout—delivered a right-hand strike to his opponent’s face.

Following the hit, Olanrewaju staggered backward, collapsed against the ropes, and then fell to the ground, leaving spectators in shock. As the referee began the mandatory count, the Nigerian boxer lay on his side before turning face down, with his throat resting on the ropes. His corner team quickly intervened, attempting to revive him by removing his gum shield and administering first aid.

Medical personnel on-site acted swiftly, rushing him to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead. His untimely passing has deeply shaken the boxing community.

Career of ‘Success’

Gabriel Oluwaseun Olanrewaju, a 40-year-old professional boxer based in Lagos, Nigeria, made his debut in 2019. At the time of his last fight, he was on a four-fight losing streak, having previously suffered defeats against Russia’s Savely Sadoma, Ibragim Estemirov, Muibi Lekan, and Rashid Idowu.

Olanrewaju had an overall professional record of 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws, with 12 of his victories coming by knockout. His first professional win came on July 30, 2019, against Jimoh Najeem, followed by two more wins before facing his first career loss to Durodola Olanrewaju via a fourth-round technical knockout. Notably, he had never won a fight outside Nigeria, with six losses recorded in Russia and two in his home country.

Awaiting Official Response

The Ghana Boxing Authority, which sanctioned the bout, has yet to issue an official statement regarding the tragic incident. Meanwhile, the boxing fraternity continues to mourn the loss of Olanrewaju, whose legacy in the sport will be remembered.