Ghanaian boxing fans have taken to social media to mourn the tragic death of boxer Ernest Akushey, popularly known as Bahubali.
The 32-year-old fighter reportedly passed away on the morning of Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
His untimely death comes barely two weeks after enduring heavy punches in a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
Akushey’s final fight took place on Saturday, September 13, when he faced rising contender Jacob Dickson in a highly anticipated super middleweight showdown.
Unfortunately, the match turned into a one-sided contest, with Dickson dominating from the opening rounds before sealing victory via an eighth-round technical knockout (TKO).
Widely circulated videos of the fight showed Akushey struggling under relentless pressure, sparking sympathy from fans even before news of his passing broke.
Watch highlights of the bout below:
Social media was filled with grief after his passing, with some fans blaming the poor state of boxing conditions in Ghana for his death.
@kennedyansah_ shared:
“Oh slow… rest well champ.”
@Lechiboroni wrote:
“I guess these boxers are not well paid and taken good care of 😭🤦🏿 that’s really sad. RIP 🪦”
@stnrboy254 wrote:
“Internal bleeding might be the main factor to this incident. Our Ghana Boxing Authority & Sports Ministry should jubilate for their good deeds. Corruption & Cruelty will continue to sink Ghana’s development. Pain me waa!😭😭RIP Bahubali💔😭”
@balde_fcb2 added:
“Awww such a nice soul😭🥹RIP”
According to Citi Sports, Akushey fell ill on Monday, September 22, after complaining of undisclosed symptoms that worsened overnight.
He was pronounced dead around 2 a.m. the following morning. Sources close to the family suspect the cause may be linked to internal injuries sustained during the Dickson fight, though an official autopsy is yet to be released.
Akushey, who rose through the ranks at the famed Wadada Gym in James Town, was once regarded as a bright prospect with an undefeated 6-0-0 record.
His fierce, crowd-pleasing style of fighting earned him the nickname Bahubali, after the heroic warrior in the Indian blockbuster film.
His death has triggered widespread grief and sorrow across social media, as Ghanaians reflect on his career and how he kept the sport exciting despite recent setbacks.
Born in Chorkor, a suburb of Ghana’s capital city Accra, Akushey competed in both the super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions depending on the bout and opponent.
Known for his warrior spirit and his ability to rally the crowd, he was a beloved figure in his local community and the wider Ghanaian boxing scene.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
