The Ghanaian boxing fraternity has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of rising fighter Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey, who passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Akushey’s last fight took place on September 12 at the Bukom Boxing Arena, where he suffered an eighth-round technical knockout against Jacob Dickson. He reportedly began to feel unwell on September 22, and his condition deteriorated overnight. He was rushed to hospital but was later pronounced dead.
An official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, though there is widespread speculation that injuries sustained in his recent bout may have contributed to internal trauma.
Nicknamed “Bahubali” for his fearless and aggressive fighting style, Akushey was considered one of Ghana’s most promising prospects. He had started his professional career with an impressive 6-0 unbeaten record, before suffering his first defeat to Jonathan Tetteh in May. His loss to Dickson earlier this month marked his second consecutive stoppage defeat.
In response to his death, the National Sports Authority (NSA) has announced the suspension of all boxing activities in Ghana pending investigations. NSA Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah revealed that preliminary findings suggest Akushey may have competed more frequently than regulations allow in the past two years, raising fresh concerns about fighter safety.
Tributes have since poured in from across the boxing world. The World Boxing Council (WBC) issued a statement expressing its “deep sorrow,” extending condolences to Akushey’s family, friends, and colleagues. His last opponent, Jacob Dickson, also paid tribute, describing Akushey as “a warrior whose courage and legacy in the ring will never be forgotten.”
Akushey’s tragic passing adds to a troubling string of boxing-related deaths in 2025. Earlier this year, Irish fighter John Cooney died after suffering a brain haemorrhage following a bout, while Japanese boxers Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa both succumbed to fight-related brain injuries in August.

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