Ghana Lifts Professional Boxing Suspension Following Sweeping Safety Reforms

National Sports Authority Reinstates Professional Boxing

The National Sports Authority (NSA) of Ghana has officially announced that the suspension on professional boxing will be lifted on Thursday, November 6, 2025. This significant decision marks the end of a temporary ban imposed following the tragic deaths of two boxers within a six-month period earlier this year. The NSA, in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, confirmed the reinstatement after extensive reforms were implemented to enhance medical and safety protocols, as well as governance and administrative structures within the sport.

Background to the Suspension

The suspension of all boxing activities in Ghana was initiated on September 25, 2025, by the NSA. This drastic measure came in response to the death of professional boxer Ernest 'Bahubali' Akushey, who passed away on September 23, 2025, due to severe injuries sustained during a bout on September 12, 2025, at the Bukom Boxing Arena. Akushey's death was the second such fatality in a short period, following the passing of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju in March 2025 after collapsing during a fight in Accra. These incidents raised serious concerns about athlete safety and the regulatory framework of professional boxing in the country.

Comprehensive Reforms for Athlete Safety

To address the critical issues that led to the suspension, an Interim Management Committee (IMC) was established to oversee the sport's normalization process. Chaired by veteran administrator and former GBA President Samir Captan, the IMC has been instrumental in implementing a series of reforms designed to safeguard boxers and elevate the sport's standards. Key measures introduced include:

• Publication of comprehensive medical and safety manuals, codes, and regulations.
• Establishment of a functional Interim Medical Commission.
• Creation of a centralized medical database for boxers.
• Approval of a comprehensive insurance framework/scheme to protect athletes.
• Implementation of a sustainable medical support system.
• Certification of ringside and medical staff.
• Introduction of tighter medical screening procedures.
• Enhanced doping controls in partnership with the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA).

These reforms are part of a broader five-year safety and development plan aimed at aligning Ghanaian boxing with international best practices and ensuring the long-term welfare of its athletes.

Future Outlook for Ghanaian Boxing

The lifting of the suspension is expected to usher in a new era for professional boxing in Ghana, with the NSA expressing optimism that these developments will not only protect athletes but also attract renewed investment and international interest. The Authority encourages both local and international promoters to bring global bouts and collaborations to Ghana under these enhanced standards. Notably, Matchroom, a prominent international promoter, has already announced plans to stage its first event in Ghana on December 20, 2025, with speculation that this could pave the way for a potential fight involving two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in the new year. The NSA also plans to roll out educational programs and new partnerships in the coming weeks to further improve the welfare of Ghanaian boxers and promote the sport's growth.