Ghana’s National Sports Authority (NSA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, has immediately suspended all boxing activities nationwide following the tragic death of professional boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey.
The suspension, announced on September 25, 2025, comes just 11 days after Akushey’s fight with Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena, where he was stopped in the eighth round. Akushey later died at LEKMA Hospital in Teshie due to complications including internal bleeding.
The NSA emphasized that the halt reflects a commitment to athlete safety, health, and welfare. Authorities noted that prior to the incident, plans were already in place for a five-year safety and development program for boxing, overseen by a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC).
These reforms aim to strengthen medical protocols, technical procedures, and regulatory oversight to ensure boxing operates under globally aligned standards once it resumes.
Stakeholders—including promoters, coaches, officials, athletes, supporters, and media—have been called upon to fully comply with the suspension.
The NSA acknowledged the immediate challenges posed but described the measure as essential to protect lives, preserve the sport’s integrity, and secure its future.
This suspension follows a pattern of recent tragedies in Ghanaian boxing, including the death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun earlier this year, highlighting the urgent need for stricter safety measures and professional oversight in the sport.
Below is the statement
