Late Nigerian boxer’s autopsy holds today
The autopsy of late Nigerian boxer Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, who died during a fight in Ghana on Saturday, will be conducted on Wednesday (today), The NewsNGR reports.
Secretary-General of Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Remi Aboderin told The NewsNGR that the autopsy is crucial for determining the next steps in the tragic case.
“Before we can take further steps, we will need to get the autopsy report, so it is when we get the autopsy report that we will know the steps to take. The autopsy is meant to take place on Wednesday (today),” Aboderin said.
The 40-year-old former National and West African light-heavyweight champion lost consciousness during his bout against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at Bukom Boxing Arena, Accra on Saturday.
Olanrewaju was leading on points before the tragic incident occurred in the scheduled eight-round light-heavyweight contest against Mbanugu.
It took only a few seconds for officials and fans at the Bukom Boxing Arena to realise that something was seriously wrong. Olanrewaju had landed two weak punches on his opponent before Mbanugu responded with a right hand to the Nigerian’s face.
After a brief impasse between both men, the Nigerian boxer staggered backwards, fell against the ropes and collapsed, to the disbelief of the fans.
The Nigerian fighter slumped on his side as the referee began the mandatory count. Moments later, he turned face down, with his throat resting against one of the ropes.
The medical team rushed into the ring, placed him on the canvas, removed his gum shield, and attempted to resuscitate him as he appeared to be gasping for breath. The on-site emergency medical team quickly transported him to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
“After the autopsy, we (NBBofC) will now go into discussions with the Ghana Boxing Authority about how his body will be transported back to Nigeria,” NBBofC Chairman, Dr Rafiu Ladipo, told The NewsNGR.
Olanrewaju had an extensive boxing career since making his debut in 2019, competing in 24 professional fights, securing 13 wins, with 12 coming by knockout. He suffered nine losses and recorded two draws in his career.
