The Ghanaian government has imposed an immediate nationwide suspension on all boxing activities following the tragic death of super-middleweight boxer Ernest Akushey, popularly known as Bahubali. The 32-year-old fighter passed away on Tuesday, just 11 days after his bout against Jacob Dickson at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on September 12. While the exact cause of death remains under investigation, preliminary reports suggest it may be linked to internal injuries sustained during the match. This incident marks the second fatality in Ghana’s boxing scene within six months, raising urgent concerns about safety standards in the sport. In March, Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju collapsed during a fight against Ghanaian opponent Jon Mbanugu in Accra and died shortly after being hospitalized. In response to these tragedies, the National Sports Authority has described the suspension as a ‘necessary step’ to ‘protect lives, uphold the integrity of the sport, and ensure its future.’ Authorities have also unveiled a five-year strategy aimed at implementing safer, more professional, and globally-aligned standards for boxing. Ghana has a rich boxing heritage, having produced world-renowned champions such as Azumah Nelson, and the sport enjoys widespread popularity across the nation. However, these recent deaths have reignited critical discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures and regulatory reforms.