Nigerians and Africans at large have been thrown into a bottomless pit of mourning after the untimely departure of a boxing champion, Olanrewaju.
Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, who slumped in a boxing ring during a tournament in Ghana on Saturday, 29th March.
The Ghana Professional Boxing League hosted Fight Night 15, where Olanrewaju competed against Ghanaian boxer, Jon Mbanugu.
The boxing competition at Bukom Arena turned sour after the unexpected turn of events. Witness alleged that Olanrewaju led the match before his fall.
Videos circulating on social media showcased the moment of his fall in the boxing ring. Initially, boxing officials thought it was a normal knockdown.
They started the count before the referee signalled for the fight to stop while medical practitioners rushed to the aid of the 40-year-old- boxer.
Unfortunately, despite the intervention, Olanrewaju gave up right in the boxing ring. He was a promising and successful boxer in the boxing world with 23 fights, won 13 with 12 knockouts, and suffered 8 defeats, recording two draws.
Following his death, netizens have taken to the streets of social media to drop their heartfelt condolences and observations concerning his death. While some claimed Olanrewaju died as a result of juju, others addressed it as cardiac arrest.
An X user said, “Ghana don carry juju enter boxing, they too like juju.”
Another user, @omorogiec commented, “Boxing is called the prized sport for a reason. So sad our brother passed away in the ring while hustling to feed home. Find peace and rest in strength champion.”
@osquare said, “Definitely a heart attack. He didn’t die due to the blow of his opponent. Not sure if the referee was trained as a first aider before officiating a fight like this. He should have called the medics early and I think an immediate CPR would have jump-started his heart.”
Previous deaths like the case of Sherif Lawal, who also collapsed while competing against Malam Varela after receiving a blow during a boxing tournament.
Also, Asymin Mustapha known as Young Ali, who slipped into a coma until his death proved the risks attached to the game of boxing. It also elaborates on the necessity of proper medical checks to monitor athlete’s overall wellness.