The National Sports Authority (NSA), in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, has announced the immediate suspension of all boxing activities in Ghana following the tragic death of professional boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey.
In a statement issued on Thursday, September 25, 2025, the NSA explained that the decision reflects its commitment, together with the Ministry, to prioritise the safety, health, and welfare of athletes.
The authority emphasised that the suspension is part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening medical, technical, and regulatory measures within the sport.
According to the NSA, preparations had already been concluded with stakeholders in the boxing fraternity to implement the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee on Boxing.
These include a five-year safety and development plan, anchored by the establishment of a nine-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee the sport’s affairs.
The authority further urged promoters, coaches, athletes, officials, and supporters to respect the directive, noting that while the suspension may pose immediate challenges, it is a necessary step to protect lives and safeguard the future of boxing in Ghana. The reforms, the statement added, are also in line with recommendations made after the death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju.
The NSA assured stakeholders of its commitment, along with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, to ensuring that boxing returns under safer, more professional, and globally aligned standards.
Read full statement here:
