TRAGEDY IN THE RING: NIGERIA ACCUSES GHANA OF NEGLIGENCE IN BOXER SEGUN OLANREWAJU’S SHOCKING DEATH

The boxing world has been rocked by a scandalous tragedy as Nigerian boxer Segun Olanrewaju collapsed and died in the ring during a professional bout in Ghana, sparking outrage and accusations of gross negligence against the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA).

The 40-year-old light-heavyweight fighter, nicknamed “Success,” tragically lost his life at Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. Olanrewaju, in a horrifying and unexplained moment, slumped to the canvas without even being hit by his opponent, Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu, during the third round of the fight. He was rushed to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital but was pronounced dead just 30 minutes later.

Now, the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C) is pointing fingers at the GBA, accusing the regulatory body of failing to follow standard boxing protocols that could have saved Olanrewaju’s life. Speaking to journalists on Monday, Remi Aboderin, secretary-general of the NBB of C, delivered a scathing indictment of the GBA, alleging that the fight was not only mishandled but illegally rescheduled without Nigeria’s approval.

BREACHES OF PROTOCOL AND A DEADLY FIGHT NIGHT

According to Aboderin, Olanrewaju’s fight was initially scheduled for March 28th but was inexplicably pushed to the 29th without any prior communication with Nigerian authorities. This, he claims, was just the tip of the iceberg.

“Segun went to Ghana to fight according to the contract, but the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) did not do their due diligence. They did not conduct the mandatory medical examination, nor did they ensure that he made the required weight for the fight,” he told ThisDay Nigeria.

The NBB of C secretary-general further disclosed that Olanrewaju was already en route back to Nigeria after the original fight date was scrapped due to a weight dispute. However, at the last minute, he was allegedly called back to Ghana for the rescheduled bout without undergoing the necessary medical clearance or weigh-in procedures.

“No medical examinations were performed to ascertain his health. No weigh-in was done. He must have been stressed,” Aboderin added, implying that exhaustion and poor oversight may have led to the boxer’s sudden collapse and death.

DID NEGLIGENCE KILL SEGUN OLANREWAJU?

The shocking turn of events has triggered a wave of anger in Nigeria’s boxing community, with calls for an immediate and thorough investigation. Many believe the Ghana Boxing Authority’s failure to adhere to safety regulations directly contributed to Olanrewaju’s untimely demise.

Fans and fellow fighters have taken to social media to express their grief and demand justice, as questions swirl about how a professional bout could be allowed to proceed without proper medical oversight.

Olanrewaju, a former West African and national light-heavyweight champion, had a respectable record of 24 fights, including 13 wins, eight losses, and three draws. His career was marked by resilience and a passion for the sport, making his tragic and avoidable death even more devastating.

With Nigerian authorities now pushing for accountability, the international boxing community is closely watching how the Ghanaian regulators respond. Will justice be served for Segun Olanrewaju, or will this tragedy be swept under the rug? The fight for answers has just begun.

Super Eagles Stumble Again: Chelle Fumes as Nigeria Drop Crucial Points Against Zimbabwe

The pressure is mounting on Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle after Nigeria’s shocking 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday, a result that leaves their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Despite dominating for much of the game, the Super Eagles failed to capitalize on their chances. Victor Osimhen’s 74th-minute goal had seemingly secured a much-needed win, only for Tawanda Chirewa to silence the home crowd with a heartbreaking stoppage-time equalizer.

Chelle, visibly frustrated, did not hold back in his post-match assessment, calling out his team’s wastefulness in front of goal and complacency after taking the lead.

“We could have scored ten goals in the first half! We made mistakes in the final moments, and Zimbabwe defended well,” Chelle fumed.

The result leaves Nigeria languishing in fourth place in Group C with just seven points, a staggering six behind leaders South Africa. With only four matches left, the road to North America now looks perilous.

A Shocking Collapse & A Tough Road Ahead

The Super Eagles were in control for large spells, creating numerous scoring opportunities but failing to convert. Osimhen finally broke the deadlock, sparking hope among fans, but a lapse in concentration in the dying moments proved costly.

Chelle was furious at his players’ attitude after taking the lead.

“When we scored, we thought the game was over. It’s tough because my players were the better team on the pitch,” he lamented.

The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign now teeters on the edge of disaster. Nigeria must navigate a must-win scenario in their remaining fixtures to salvage hopes of securing a second-place finish and a potential playoff spot.

Despite his frustration, Chelle insisted that the fight isn’t over yet.

“I am disappointed for my players and the country, but we will fight for second place.”

Fans & Pundits Demand Urgent Action

With mounting pressure from angry fans and critics, the draw against Zimbabwe is yet another setback in what has been a disjointed and underwhelming qualifying campaign. Questions are now being asked about Chelle’s tactics, squad selections, and whether the Super Eagles can turn things around before it’s too late.

For now, Nigeria’s World Cup dreams remain in limbo. Will the Super Eagles rise to the challenge, or is this the beginning of yet another qualification heartbreak? The next few games will determine their fate.

Ademola Lookman Set for Sensational Atalanta Exit Amid Premier League and Saudi Interest

Red-hot Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, has made a bombshell decision to quit Atalanta at the end of the season, informing his family of his imminent departure. The news, confirmed by top Italian journalist Sacha Tavolieri via Sky Italia, has sent shockwaves through the transfer market.

According to reports, it’s a done deal—Lookman will not wear the Atalanta jersey next season. His fractured relationship with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, which worsened after his missed penalty against Club Brugge in the Champions League last-16, has accelerated his departure. The Nigerian star has reportedly grown disillusioned with his treatment at the club, particularly in light of Gasperini’s critical remarks in the Italian press.

Lookman has been on the transfer radar for over a year and a half, and his stock remains high, particularly in the Premier League. The London-born forward, who etched his name in Atalanta history with a legendary hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, feels his contributions have not been adequately recognized in the dressing room.

Despite his dissatisfaction, Lookman has still managed to contribute to 29% of Atalanta’s goals this season, netting 12 times and providing five assists. However, at 27, he is eager to secure a move that matches his ambitions, with major suitors already circling.

Liverpool have taken the first steps in securing his services, viewing him as a potential successor to Mohamed Salah, who could leave in the summer of 2025. Arsenal have also made inquiries but are yet to make concrete moves like the Reds. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Pro League remains a lucrative option, with Lookman reportedly open to a big-money switch if the right offer comes his way.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the race for Ademola Lookman’s signature is heating up, with European giants and cash-rich Saudi clubs all vying for the Nigerian’s services. One thing is certain—his time at Atalanta is coming to an explosive end, and a high-profile move is on the horizon.