Gabriel Olanrewaju, a boxer from Nigeria, passes away during the title match versus Ghana

Nigerian boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju, a former National and West African Light Heavyweight Champion, passed away tragically, leaving the African boxing community in sadness. The veteran fighter died in the ring on Saturday night during a much-anticipated battle with a Ghanaian opponent.

It was touted as one of the most thrilling fights in recent memory and took place at the crowded Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana. Known for his strength and tenacity, Olanrewaju faced the Ghanaian opponent in a fight intended to establish his supremacy in the local boxing scene.

The bout began with both guys trading powerful strikes, enthralling spectators with their talent and determination. Olanrewaju, however, seemed to struggle and exhibit obvious symptoms of tiredness in the later rounds. Following a barrage of severe strikes in the tenth round, he passed out in the ring.

As the crowd watched in stunned silence, medical staff rushed in to tend to him. At a nearby hospital, the Nigerian champion was declared dead despite their best attempts to resuscitate him.

The boxing community has been inundated with tributes, many of which recall Olanrewaju as a committed athlete who served as an inspiration to numerous young boxers. Visibly shocked by the incident, the Ghanaian opponent offered his condolences, saying he hoped things had gone differently and that he had the highest respect for Olanrewaju.

Calls for more stringent medical examinations and enhanced emergency response procedures at African boxing events have rekindled conversations about boxing safety procedures as inquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death continue.

Fans and fighters throughout the continent will surely carry on Olanrewaju’s legacy as a fearless fighter and champion.