A Ghanaian Star Boxer Dies After Receiving ‘Difficult Blows’ in Fight To Earn 1,000 Cedis

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By Our Correspondent

A star Ghanaian pugilist, Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey, 32, has died days after suffering a technical knockout defeat by an opponent, Jacob Dickson, at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.

A US-based Ghanaian Nursing Officer and Medical Gerontologist, Jeremiah Obo Assan, believes that Bahubali may have suffered internal bleeding during the fight, which could have led to a haemorrhagic stroke.

His death has sparked debates about boxer welfare in Ghana, with renewed calls for stricter medical checks, proper insurance coverage, and fairer compensation for fighters.

Health Awareness Coach Abeiku Santana said Bahubali’s injuries could have caused hidden internal damage, warning that “small injuries can be very dangerous inside the body.”

Bahubali’s death followed a series of events that began with a defeat in the ring. He was 32 years old. On September 13, 2025, the fierce boxer endured a difficult bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena, where he was defeated by Jacob Dickson through an eighth-round technical knockout.

The match was intense, with Bahubali receiving countless blows that deformed his face, leaving him with severe swelling and multiple wounds.

Footage of the match, showing him struggling to match Dickson’s intensity, went viral. Some critics questioned why the Ghana Boxing Authority permitted such a dangerous contest. Days later, in the early hours of September 23, Bahubali fell ill. His condition deteriorated rapidly overnight. He was rushed to LEKMA Hospital in Accra, where he was pronounced dead.

Also Read: Nigeria Flags Off Participation in Maiden African School Games in Algeria, Backs Youth and Olympic Dreams As the curtain rises on the Maiden African School Games in Algeria, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to youth development, national pride, and the Olympic dream by facilitating the country’s participation in this historic continental event. Scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 5, 2025, across various Algerian cities, the African School Games is a first-of-its-kind initiative organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) in collaboration with the International School Sport Federation (ISF) and supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Nigeria will be represented by a robust delegation comprising 60 student-athletes, who will compete in 10 sporting disciplines, alongside officials, coaches, and medical personnel. These young athletes are expected to proudly hoist the national flag while showcasing the depth of Nigeria’s sporting talent and potential on a global grooming platform. “This isn’t just about winning medals; it’s about shaping futures, building unity across the continent, and instilling values that last a lifetime,” said Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission. “Nigeria’s participation is a strategic investment in our youth—who represent the foundation of our nation's greatness in sport and beyond.” The Games emphasize the core Olympic values of friendship, solidarity, and fair play. With 25 sports disciplines on the schedule, the event provides a unique opportunity to identify, nurture, and develop emerging athletic talent across Africa. It also aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to deepen its sports talent pool in preparation for future global events such as the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. “We are not just participating—we are preparing,” Olopade added. “This experience will provide our athletes with the exposure, resilience, and international perspective necessary to succeed on the world stage.” Beyond athletic competition, the African School Games aim to promote pan-African unity and leverage sport as a catalyst for social development. Nigerian athletes will compete alongside their peers from across the continent, fostering mutual respect, cultural exchange, and long-lasting friendships. To further inspire the young participants, Olympic legends Noureddine Morceli and Hassiba Boulmerka have been appointed as ambassadors for the Games. Their mentorship is expected to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Africa’s next generation of champions. ANOCA President Mustapha Berraf emphasized the importance of the event, stating: > “We are witnessing an exceptional moment. ANOCA is living one of its most cherished dreams—offering African youths a platform for development through sport, in the spirit of Olympism.” The National Sports Commission remains unwavering in its vision of using sport as a vehicle for nation-building and youth empowerment. Nigeria’s participation in the African School Games is a testament to that commitment and marks the beginning of a new chapter in the country’s sporting history. SIGNED: Kola Daniel Special Assistant, Media Office of the Director General National Sports Commission (NSC) Date: July 25, 2025

The exact cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but some sources claim the internal injuries sustained during the fight may have contributed to his sudden illness and eventual passing.

It was reported that he earned only 1,000 Ghana cedis after the match, making his situation even more tragic, as many questioned how he could have afforded proper medical care.

Bahubali was a fast-rising star in Ghana’s boxing scene, admired for his confidence in beating opponents and his ability to draw large crowds to his matches.

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