Ghanaian boxer Ernest Akushey, widely known as Bahubali, has died just days after suffering defeat in the ring.
The 27-year-old passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, September 23, 2025, a week after his last fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.
Akushey, who trained at the Wadada Gym in James Town, was once celebrated as an undefeated prospect with a 6-0 professional record. His fearless, aggressive style made him a crowd favorite and earned him the nickname Bahubali, drawn from the warrior hero in the blockbuster Indian film.
His final appearance came on Saturday, September 13, when he faced rising contender Jacob Dickson in a super middleweight showdown. The fight proved one-sided, with Dickson dominating from the start before sealing victory with an eighth-round technical knockout.
Footage of the bout circulated on social media showed Akushey struggling under sustained pressure, prompting concern among fans even before his death.
Bahubali didn’t stand a chance
— WithAlvin 🇬🇭 (@withAlvin__) September 15, 2025
He didn’t even throw one punch 😂 aww FireStick your cousin needs you. https://t.co/Jp4TNadf2H pic.twitter.com/AXzRpySH50
According to reports from James Town TV and Africabox Showup, Akushey complained of illness on Monday, September 22. His condition worsened overnight, and he was pronounced dead around 2 a.m. the following morning.
Family sources fear his death may be linked to injuries sustained in the Dickson fight, though an official cause has not yet been confirmed.
