Autopsy reveals cause of Nigerian boxer death during fight in Ghana

An autopsy conducted on late Nigerian boxer, Olanrewaju Segun, popularly known as ‘Success’, has confirmed that the 40-year-old athlete died from sudden cardiac arrest during his bout in Ghana.

Secretary-General of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) and President of the West African Boxing Union, Remi Aboderin, disclosed the findings, which came from preliminary post-mortem results.

“The preliminary post-mortem results indicate that Segun died from sudden cardiac arrest.But further investigation into his heart condition is required, and as a result, his body will not be released to Nigeria for burial until approximately two weeks,” Aboderin said.

The autopsy was carried out on Wednesday, April 2, following a court order initiated after the boxer’s sudden death during a professional match in Accra.

Olanrewaju collapsed mid-fight last Saturday during his match against Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu at Fight Night 15, part of the Ghana Professional Boxing League. He was ahead on points in their eight-round light-heavyweight contest when the tragedy struck.

Medical personnel at the Bukom Boxing Arena responded immediately, entering the ring to remove his gum shield and attempt resuscitation. Despite being swiftly transported to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Until his passing, Olanrewaju had carved out a significant boxing career. A former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, he turned professional in 2019, racking up 24 fights—13 wins (12 by knockout), nine losses, and two draws.