The Ghanaian boxing fraternity has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Ernest Akushey, popularly known in the ring as ‘Bahubali’. The talented boxer passed away just 11 days after his most recent fight against Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
Akushey, who was involved in a highly anticipated super middleweight clash on September 12, reportedly suffered internal bleeding after the bout. He was stopped in the eighth round by Dickson in what was described as a physically demanding contest.
His death, confirmed in the early hours of Tuesday, has reignited debate over the safety and welfare of boxers in Ghana.
Often referred to as one of the promising fighters emerging from Bukom, Akushey built a respectable professional record in both the super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions. Out of his eight professional fights, he secured six victories, showcasing his resilience and fighting spirit. His fans admired not only his skill but also his courage inside the ring, earning him the affectionate nickname Bahubali.
News of his passing has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, with many expressing grief over the loss of such a talented athlete at the prime of his career. Social media has been flooded with tributes, with fans, fellow boxers, and sports journalists mourning his untimely death. Some recalled his determination in past fights, while others called for reforms in the sport to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Ghana has a rich boxing heritage, producing legends such as Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, and Joshua Clottey. However, Akushey’s death highlights growing concerns about the risks associated with the sport and the urgent need for stronger safety protocols. Boxing experts have argued that routine medical checks, advanced protective measures, and post-fight monitoring must be strictly enforced to safeguard athletes.
While the official medical details surrounding Akushey’s condition remain limited, reports indicate that internal injuries sustained during the fight may have gone unnoticed until it was too late. Such cases have been cited in the past as evidence that Ghana’s boxing regulatory framework requires urgent improvement.
Sports analysts have called for the Ghana Boxing Authority to review its medical assessment procedures. Some have also urged for better insurance schemes for fighters, improved access to quality healthcare, and increased education for athletes and their trainers on injury prevention and management.
The tragedy of Ernest ‘Bahubali’ Akushey’s passing serves as a stark reminder of the physical toll boxing takes on its athletes. For fans, it is the loss of an exciting fighter who carried hopes of making his mark on Ghana’s boxing stage. For the industry, it is a wake-up call to prioritize safety, ensuring that the pursuit of glory never comes at the expense of human lives.
As tributes continue to pour in, Akushey will be remembered not only for his victories and determination but also as a symbol of the urgent reforms needed in Ghanaian boxing. His legacy, though cut short, may yet spark the change necessary to protect the next generation of fighters.
