The Ghanaian boxing community is in mourning following the sudden death of rising super middleweight contender Ernest Akushey, known as “Bahubali,” in the early hours of Tuesday. The 27-year-old passed away less than two weeks after a punishing eighth-round technical knockout loss to Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena on September 13, raising fresh concerns over fighter safety in the sport.
Akushey, a product of the Wadada Gym in James Town, had built a reputation as a fearless crowd favorite with an initial undefeated 6-0 professional record, competing in both super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.433de8f63a4f His aggressive style and nickname—drawn from the warrior hero in the Indian film Bahubali—made him a Bukom Boxing Arena staple, though his career faced setbacks, including an abrupt end to a 2024 title bout against Elvis Ahorgah due to glove disputes.
In his final fight, footage showed Akushey under relentless pressure from Dickson, ending in a TKO that left fans worried even before reports of his worsening condition emerged.
He complained of illness on September 22, and family sources suspect internal injuries from the bout contributed to his death around 2 a.m., though an autopsy is pending confirmation.
James Town TV and Africabox Showup first reported the news, sparking tributes across social media for the promising talent whose career was cut short.
The tragedy echoes the March 2025 death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun, who collapsed mid-bout at Bukom Arena, prompting a Sports Ministry inquiry into Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) protocols.
Stakeholders are renewing calls for stricter medical checks and oversight, with the GBA yet to issue an official statement.
Akushey’s family and the boxing fraternity have received condolences from figures like Sports Minister Kofi Adams, who emphasized revitalizing Ghana’s boxing legacy.
