Tributes pour in for Nigerian boxer Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju after tragic death in Ghana

Tributes continue to pour in from across the Nigerian boxing community following the sudden death of Segun “Success” Olanrewaju, who tragically collapsed during a boxing match in Ghana on March 29, 2025

 

The Nigerian boxing community is in mourning following the tragic death of Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, a former National and West African light-heavyweight champion.

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Olanrewaju collapsed during a boxing match in Ghana on March 29, 2025, at the Fight Night 15 event of the Ghana Professional Boxing League, held at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. He was 40 years old.

The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) Chairman, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, expressed his condolences, acknowledging the impact of the loss on the boxing community.

“It is unfortunate we had to lose him, and may his soul rest in peace,” Ladipo said. He assured that the board would investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, vowing to uncover any hidden facts. Olanrewaju leaves behind a wife and three children.

The NBBofC Secretary General, Remi Aboderin, who was part of the delegation that visited Olanrewaju’s family in Ogun State, also offered his heartfelt condolences.

“Our deepest condolences to the family of the fallen ‘Ring Soldier’ Oluwasegun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, may his amiable soul rest in perfect peace,” he said.

Interim president of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, Azania Omo-Agege, expressed his sadness, acknowledging that while Olanrewaju was a professional boxer, his passing was a loss to the entire nation.

“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 collapsed without taking a punch during the match, suggesting the cause might have been stress-related, possibly due to a heart attack.

Several other figures from the Nigerian boxing community have paid tribute to Olanrewaju. Boxing coach Tony Konyegwachie expressed his sorrow, stating, “This is sad.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.” Former Nigerian boxer Ikechukwu Okoronkwo was visibly shocked, commenting, “Oh my God, very sad.

This looks like a heart attack, like a cardiac arrest. My condolences to all concerned and the family. May his soul rest in peace.”

Promoter Saleh Fawaz, also devastated by the news, added, “(I was) speechless. This news hit hard as in very hard.

May his soul rest in peace and may God give his loved ones every strength they need during this terrible period. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Olanrewaju, who had an extensive boxing career, participated in 24 professional bouts, securing 13 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws.

His boxing journey began in 2019, when he made his professional debut with a win over Jimoh Najeem. Despite early success, Olanrewaju faced difficulties in recent years, suffering four consecutive losses before his tragic death.

His last fight took place on December 24, 2024, where he was defeated by UBO champion Idowu Rasheed in Lagos.

The death of Segun Olanrewaju has left a deep void in the Nigerian boxing community, as tributes continue to pour in from fans and fellow boxers alike.

Also read: Barcelona coach Hansi Flick pays tribute to Dr. Carles Minarro ahead of Benfica clash

The circumstances surrounding his passing are still under investigation, but it has brought to light the physical and emotional toll that boxers face in their careers.