The National Sports Authority (NSA) has suspended all boxing activities in Ghana with immediate effect following the sudden and tragic death of professional boxer Ernest Oko Akushey, popularly known in the boxing fraternity as Bahubali.
The 27-year-old boxer passed away just 11 days after suffering a bruising defeat to Jacob Dickson in a super middleweight bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Friday, September 12, 2025. While the exact cause of death has not yet been medically established, concerns have been raised that his passing may be linked to injuries sustained during the fight.
NSA’s Decision and Statement
In a press release dated September 25, 2025, the NSA, acting in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, announced the suspension, emphasizing that the move was necessary to safeguard the health and wellbeing of athletes. “This decision reflects our joint commitment with the Ministry to prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of athletes. While the suspension may present immediate challenges, it remains a necessary step to protect lives, preserve the integrity of the sport, and secure its future,” the statement said.
The Authority further revealed that prior to Bahubali’s untimely death, plans were already underway to reform the sport. These include the implementation of a five-year safety and development plan, anchored by the creation of a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) tasked with overseeing boxing affairs in Ghana.
Planned Reforms
The NSA indicated that the reforms aim to strengthen boxing’s medical, technical, and regulatory systems. Key measures under consideration include:
Enhanced medical screening and post-fight monitoring for boxers.
Improved safety protocols during and after bouts.
Technical training and certification for coaches and referees.
Stricter regulatory oversight to ensure compliance with global standards.
The Authority has therefore appealed to all stakeholders, including promoters, managers, coaches, and boxers, to respect the directive and support the reforms for the greater good of the sport.
Shockwaves Across the Boxing Fraternity
Bahubali’s death has sent shockwaves through the Ghanaian boxing community, particularly in Bukom, the heartbeat of Ghanaian boxing, where he was widely admired for his resilience and fighting spirit. Tributes have poured in from fellow boxers, coaches, fans, and administrators who described him as a determined young fighter with a promising career.
Veteran boxing trainer Coach Nii Odametey remarked, “Bahubali fought with his heart every time he stepped into the ring. His death is a painful reminder that we must do more to protect our athletes.”
Boxing Under Scrutiny
Boxing, long regarded as one of Ghana’s most celebrated sports disciplines, has also been one of the most physically demanding and dangerous. Bahubali’s passing has reignited conversations about boxer welfare, the adequacy of medical care before and after bouts, and the urgent need for reforms to minimize risks in the sport.
While the suspension has temporarily halted competitions and training sessions, many believe the move could mark the beginning of a safer and more structured era for Ghanaian boxing.
Looking Ahead
For now, the NSA insists the suspension is not a punishment but a protective measure. The Authority has assured stakeholders that once the safety and regulatory structures are strengthened, boxing will return stronger and better positioned to nurture talent while protecting lives.
As Ghana mourns the loss of Bahubali, the nation is also faced with a sobering reality: the need to balance the passion and excitement of the sport with the paramount duty of protecting the very athletes who make it possible.
