The National Sports Authority (NSA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has announced the immediate suspension of all boxing activities across the country following the tragic death of professional boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey.
In a statement issued on Thursday, September 25, 2025, the NSA emphasized that the suspension is not merely a reaction to Akushey’s death but a deliberate step toward overhauling the sport’s safety, medical, and regulatory frameworks.
New Era of Boxing Governance
According to the Authority, preparations were already underway to implement reforms recommended by the Ministerial Committee on Boxing. Central to these reforms is a five-year safety and development plan and the establishment of a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) tasked with overseeing Ghanaian boxing during the transition period.
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“These measures are designed to bring Ghanaian boxing in line with global standards, ensuring the health and welfare of athletes remain paramount,” the statement read.
Tragedy Exposes Longstanding Concerns
The suspension comes in the wake of two tragic deaths this year alone. In March, Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju collapsed and died during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at Bukom Boxing Arena. Now, just six months later, Ghana has lost another fighter, Ernest Akushey, intensifying calls for urgent reforms.
Sports analysts say the tragedies underscore systemic challenges in athlete medical screening, ringside emergency protocols, and overall regulatory oversight.
Call for Stakeholder Support
The NSA and Ministry acknowledged that while the suspension may disrupt promoters, coaches, athletes, and fans in the short term, it is a necessary sacrifice to protect lives and restore public trust.
“Together with our partners, we remain committed to guiding the safe, responsible, and sustainable return of boxing in Ghana,” the NSA assured.
What Lies Ahead
The reforms are expected to introduce stricter medical checks, improved insurance for athletes, enhanced training for referees and medical staff, and clear accountability structures for promoters.
If fully implemented, these measures could transform Ghana into a regional leader in safe and professional boxing, ensuring that the passion for the sport is preserved without compromising athlete welfare.
