The Nigerian boxing community is in mourning following the death of Segun “Success” Olanrewaju, a former national and West African light-heavyweight champion, who collapsed during a fight in Ghana.

Forty-year-old Olanrewaju was competing against Ghanaian boxer John Mbanugu, known as “Power,” in an undercard bout at Ghana’s Professional Boxing League when the incident occurred.

The fight, held on Saturday, March 29, at the Bukom Boxing Arena, was well underway when Olanrewaju suddenly fell to the canvas with just 15 seconds remaining in the third round of the scheduled eight-round contest.

The referee quickly called for medical assistance, and paramedics rushed in to provide emergency care. Despite their efforts, the Nigerian fighter was pronounced dead, with early reports indicating a possible cardiac arrest as the cause.

Footage of the match, now circulating online, shows both fighters trading heavy blows before Olanrewaju lost his balance and collapsed.

Born in Lagos, Olanrewaju had a commendable professional career, recording 13 wins—12 by knockout—out of 23 fights.

However, he struggled in recent years, suffering four consecutive losses leading up to his final bout. His last fight before the Ghana match took place on December 24, 2024, when Idowu Raheed defeated him at the Campos Mini Stadium in Lagos.

His sudden passing has shocked the boxing world, with fans, fellow fighters, and sports enthusiasts paying tribute to a once-formidable champion.