By Olanrewaju Agiri
The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C) has expressed regret at the sudden death of Nigerian boxer, Segun ”Success” Olanrewaju, describing it as unfortunate and a big loss to the boxing community.
The former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, aged 40, died at the weekend in Ghana after collapsing while fighting against Accra-born John Mbanugu, A K.A “Power” in an undercard bout of Ghana’s Professional Boxing League.
Speaking to news men shortly after the board paid a condolence visit to his family on Monday, Secretary General of NBB of C Remi Aboderin said the sad incident which occurred at the famous Bukom Boxing Arena, came to him and the board as a rude shock.
He however, disclosed that the board has made contact with the Ghanaian authorities in regards to Olanrewaju autopsy report which the NBB of C is expecting as soon as possible.
”Olanrewaju’s death was unfortunate and a huge shock to us. Nigeria and the world have lost such a great boxer. We have made contact with the authorities in Ghana concerning the autopsy report which they have promised to make available,” said Aboderin who doubles as the President of West African Boxing Union
It would be recalled that Olanrewaju suddenly fell to the canvas mid-way in the fight, prompting the referee to immediately call for medical assistance.
Medics rushed to the scene but in spite of the attempts to revive him, the boxer was pronounced dead, with reports suggesting he may have suffered cardiac arrest.
A video of the fight shared on social media showed both boxers fiercely trading punches before Olanrewaju stumbled and collapsed.
However, this occurred with only 15 seconds left in the third round of their scheduled eight-round bout.
Olanrewaju, a respected figure in Nigerian boxing, previously held both National and West African light-heavyweight titles.
According to BoxRec Olanrewaju, born in Lagos, had an extensive boxing career, competing in 23 professional fights, securing 13 wins, with 12 coming by knockout.
He suffered eight defeats and recorded two draws in his career.
