Tributes have continued to flood in from the Nigerian boxing community following the sudden death of former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, who tragically collapsed during a boxing match in Ghana on Saturday.
The shocking incident has left the boxing world in mourning, as the beloved athlete, known for his skill and dedication to the sport, passed away at the age of 39.
According to reports from PUNCH Sports Extra, Olanrewaju’s collapse occurred mid-fight, with spectators and officials at the venue shocked by the unexpected turn of events.
Despite attempts to revive him, the boxer was pronounced dead, sparking an outpouring of grief and disbelief from the boxing community, family, and fans alike.
Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) Chairman, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, shared his condolences, calling the death “unfortunate.” He expressed the NBBofC’s commitment to investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
“It is unfortunate we had to lose him, and may his soul rest in peace. We are alive to our responsibilities concerning this tragic incident, and we will do all in our power to ensure all hidden facts about this death in the ring are unveiled and unravelled,” said Dr. Ladipo.
The NBBofC also extended its support to Olanrewaju’s family, with Dr. Ladipo confirming that a meeting had taken place in Ogun State on Monday, where the family was offered condolences and assistance. Olanrewaju leaves behind his wife and three children, who are now grieving the loss of their loved one.
NBBofC Secretary General, Remi Aboderin, was part of the delegation that visited the family, and he too expressed heartfelt condolences. “Our deepest condolences to the family of the fallen ‘Ring Soldier’ Oluwasegun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju. May his amiable soul rest in perfect peace,” Aboderin said.
Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) interim president, Azania Omo-Agege, also weighed in on the tragedy, recalling Olanrewaju’s legacy as a professional boxer.
“It’s unfortunate this occurred; he’s a professional boxer, but that doesn’t take away the fact that he’s a Nigerian and one of us,” Omo-Agege said.
He noted that Olanrewaju’s collapse did not result from a punch, leading to speculation that the incident may have been stress-related or caused by an underlying cardiovascular issue.
“When you look at the video, you can see it is stress-related. He didn’t take a punch when he collapsed, so you could tell that it has to do with his cardio, which comes from a heart attack. We have to look for ways to prevent this, and may his soul rest in peace,” Omo-Agege added.
As investigations continue into the cause of Olanrewaju’s death, many are calling for increased awareness and preventive measures in the sport to protect athletes from health risks, particularly concerning the cardiovascular challenges that may arise during intense competition.
Olanrewaju, who had a long and successful career in boxing, will be remembered not only for his achievements in the ring but also for his dedication and the positive impact he had on the Nigerian boxing scene. His passing has left a significant void in the sport, and his memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
