- The National Sports Authority (NSA) has suspended all boxing activities in Ghana immediately.
- This decision was made in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.
- The suspension follows the death of boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey on September 23, 2025.
The National Sports Authority (NSA), in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, has suspended all boxing activities in Ghana with immediate effect.
This action follows the death of professional super-middleweight boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey, who passed away on September 23, 2025, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. The 32-year-old suffered severe injuries during a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena and battled for 11 days before succumbing.
“This decision reflects our joint commitment to prioritise the safety, health, and welfare of athletes,” the NSA said in its statement.
The suspension arrives just six months after another tragedy the death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju in March following a fight in Accra.
According to the NSA, a five-year safety and development plan aimed at aligning medical, technical, and regulatory standards with global benchmarks was already underway. Oversight of these reforms will be handled by a nine-member Interim Management Committee.
Although the halt will temporarily disrupt sporting events, officials insist it is essential to protect athletes and restore confidence in the sport. “This is a necessary step to protect lives, preserve the integrity of the sport, and secure its future,” the NSA added.
Boxing remains deeply rooted in Ghana, especially in the Bukom community, famed for producing world champions such as Azumah Nelson. These recent tragedies have intensified calls for stricter medical protocols, stronger oversight, and improved safety measures.
Authorities have assured the public that boxing will return under safer and more professional standards, fully compliant with international practices.
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