Nigerian Boxer Segun Olanrewaju Dies in Ring Against Ghanaian Jon Mbanugu

Nigerian boxer Segun “Success” Olanrewaju, 40, collapsed and died during a third-round bout against Ghanaian Jon “Power” Mbanugu, 22, at Bukom Boxing Arena on March 29, during Ghana Professional Boxing League’s Fight Night 15.

Leading on points, Olanrewaju fell without a direct hit, likely due to cardiac arrest. Medics failed to revive him despite rushing to the ring after the referee initially ruled a knockdown. The ex-National and West African light-heavyweight champ had 13 wins (12 KOs) in 23 fights but had lost his last four. Mbanugu, now 13-1-1, won by KO.

Matchmaker Yussif Mubarak Nanor told Graphic Online, “We’re shocked. He was cleared medically and fought in December.” Dr. Asante noted, “No punch caused it—possibly a heart issue.” Mbanugu told Asaase Radio, “I’m excited for the win but sad how it ended.” On X,

@gyaigyiimi
posted at 09:05 WAT, “Nigerian boxer passed away mid-fight. RIP champ💔,” with a video, while
@Web3newbie007

shared a link at 15:38 WAT. Fans criticized slow CPR response, some recalling Sam Okwaraji’s death. Pulse Sports Nigeria reported “juju” rumors, but tributes focused on Olanrewaju’s legacy. Investigations continue as boxing debates safety.

Click https://x.com/oxygist/status/1906297325531566193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1906297325531566193%7Ctwgr%5E45d2a45b84176c8d1c4ac44b8721f6389aff565e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gistreel.com%2Fnigerian-boxer-collapses-and-passes-away-mid-fight-against-ghanaian-opponent%2F to view the video