Boxer Ernest 'Bahubali' Akushey dies days after September 12 Bukom Arena fight

Ghanaian boxer Ernest Akushey, widely known by his ring name “Bahubali”, has died just 11 days after his last fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena, sparking renewed concern about safety standards in the sport.

The 32-year-old super middleweight pugilist faced Jacob Dickson in a highly anticipated contest on September 12, 2025, but was stopped in the eighth round. 

He was confirmed dead in the early hours of Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the LEKMA Hospital in Teshie, Accra, after what was described as a brief illness by his manager Shatta Roco, in an interview with the Chorkor Jamaica Facebook Channel. 

Shatta Roco insisted that Akushey was fully fit before his last fight, but was diagnosed with malaria by a doctor after the Dickson fight and was on medication. However, he said, when the fighter was rushed to the hospital yesterday, the doctors discovered several other issues.

Akushey, who also competed in the light heavyweight division, fought a total of eight professional bouts, securing six wins. Trained at the Wadada Gym in James Town and born in Chorkor, he had developed a reputation for his ability to take punishment and at times reckless fighting style, earning him admiration from fans.

His death has reignited debate about the dangers of repeated punishment in the ring.

Following his defeat to Dickson, former IBF welterweight champion Joshua Clottey had publicly cautioned him against engaging in too many bruising encounters.

“He may not feel the effects of the punishment now, but he will suffer the impact later in life,” Clottey warned in a video that circulated widely after the fight.

Akushey’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through Ghana’s boxing fraternity, once again underscoring the risks associated with the sport.