Tributes for late Nigerian boxer Olanrewaju
Tributes have been flowing in from the Nigerian boxing community following the untimely passing of Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, a former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, who tragically collapsed during a boxing match in Ghana on Saturday.
Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, Chairman of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, conveyed his condolences, stating, “It is regrettable that we have lost him, and may his soul find eternal peace.
“We are committed to our responsibilities regarding this tragic event, and we will exert every effort to uncover all the underlying details surrounding this incident in the ring.”
Ladipo further mentioned that the NBBofC met with Olanrewaju's family in Ogun State on Monday to offer their condolences, as he is survived by a wife and three children.
Remi Aboderin, the NBBofC Secretary General, who accompanied the visit to the bereaved family, expressed, “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the late ‘Ring Soldier’ Oluwasegun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju; may his kind soul rest in perfect peace.”
Azania Omo-Agege, the interim president of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, also shared his sorrow over Olanrewaju's demise.
“It is unfortunate that this has happened; he was a professional boxer, but that does not diminish the fact that he was a Nigerian and one of our own,” Omo-Agege remarked.
“Upon reviewing the video, it appears to be stress-related. He did not receive a punch before collapsing, indicating that it may be linked to a cardiac issue. We must seek ways to prevent such occurrences, and may his soul rest in peace.”
Nigerian boxing coach Tony Konyegwachie expressed his condolences, stating, “This is truly sad. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
Former Nigerian boxer Ikechukwu Okoronkwo expressed his shock upon hearing of Olanrewaju’s passing.
“Oh my God, this is incredibly tragic. It appears to be a heart attack or cardiac arrest. My heartfelt condolences to everyone affected and to the family. May his soul find eternal peace,” he expressed.
Boxing promoter Saleh Fawaz was left in shock upon receiving the news.
“I was at a loss for words. This news struck me deeply. May his soul rest in peace, and may God provide his loved ones with the strength they need during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Champion,” he remarked.
The 40-year-old Nigerian boxer lost consciousness while competing against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
Olanrewaju had a notable boxing career, participating in 24 professional matches, achieving 13 victories, nine defeats, and two draws.
He began his professional journey in 2019, securing his first win against Jimoh Najeem on July 30. Following that, he triumphed in two more fights before experiencing his first loss. Unfortunately, he faced challenges in recent years, enduring four consecutive defeats prior to his untimely passing. His last match took place on December 24, 2024, where he was defeated by UBO champion Idowu Rasheed at the Campos Mini Stadium in Lagos.
