Boxing in Ghana suspended after the death of Ernest Akushey at the age of 32

All boxing activities in Ghana were suspended following the death of an average weight 11 days after a fight in Accra.

Ernest Akushey, popularly known as Bahubali, died on Tuesday at the age of 32.

Although the exact cause of the death is still to be determined, the preliminary indications suggest that it can be linked to the internal injuries suffered during its recent fight.

Akushey faced Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena in the Ghanaian capital on September 12.

In a press release, the National Sports Authority described the national suspension as a “necessary step” to “protect lives, maintain the integrity of sport and ensure its future”.

The authorities have also announced its intention to implement a five -year strategy aimed at establishing safer, more professional and aligned global standards for boxing.

This incident marks the second death of a professional fighter in Ghana in the space of six months, reviving discussions on safety standards.

In March, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju in Nigeria collapsed by taking Ghanaian opponent Jon Mbanugu, also in Accra, and died shortly after being transported to the hospital.

Boxing enjoys immense popularity in Ghana and has produced many world champions, including the former world champion of two legendary weights Azumah Nelson.