Logo of the National Sports Authority
The National Sports Authority (NSA) has announced the immediate suspension of all boxing activities in Ghana.
The decision taken by the National Sports Authority, in consultation with the Sports Ministry, follows the death of boxer Ernest ‘Bahubali’ Akushey.
Ernest Akushey AKA Bahubali passed away on the morning of Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra.
The 32-year-old boxer died barely two weeks after suffering from heavy punches in a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
Former GBA President assessed Bahubali, found him unfit for boxing – Amin Lamptey
Read the full statement from the NSA:
The National Sports Authority (NSA), in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, has, with immediate effect, suspended all boxing activities in Ghana.
This decision follows the tragic passing of professional boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey after his most recent bout. It reflects the joint commitment of the NSA and the Sports Ministry to prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of athletes.
It is worth noting that prior to this unfortunate incident, the NSA and the Ministry, together with key stakeholders in the boxing fraternity, had concluded preparations to implement the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee on Boxing. These include a comprehensive five-year safety and development plan, anchored by the establishment of a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee the affairs of the sport.
The reforms are designed to strengthen medical, technical, and regulatory procedures, ensuring that when boxing returns, it will operate under safer, more professional, and globally aligned standards.
The NSA and the Sports Ministry therefore calls on all stakeholders – promoters, coaches, officials, athletes, supporters and the media – to fully respect this directive. 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. It is in line with the committee setup by the Hon. Minister following the death of the Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju.
Together with our partners, we remain committed to guiding the safe, responsible, and sustainable return of boxing in Ghana.
Meanwhile, watch interviews with Bahubali’s twin sister and promoter below
