Ghana boxing needs improved medical protocols

A few weeks have passed since the tragic death of light heavyweight boxing sensation Ernest ‘Bahubali’ Akusey. Before this, a Nigerian boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, also lost his life after collapsing mid-fight.

The passing of both boxers has sprung up conversations and reforms about the structure of boxing in the country.

At the national level, the National Sports Authority, led by Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, together with the Ministry, called for the indefinite ban of boxing-related activities.

There has also been the creation of an interim boxing committee with the likes of Azumah Nelson and Samir Captan, which will see to the development of guidelines for the future of boxing in the country.

The committee has an extensive roadmap and targets to achieve, which include:

• Reviewing medical protocols via the Medical and Anti-Doping Sub-Committee.

• Instituting insurance policies to protect boxers.

• Launching orientation and capacity-building programs.

• Driving investment opportunities and lobbying for government support.

To help push for stricter health checks for fighters, boxing stakeholders should consider the following suggestions:

• Fighter camp monitoring. Boxers preparing for a match should have access to a physician for medical evaluations during their training. A doctor from the Ghana Boxing Authority could advise fighters on injuries, nutrition, and other health matters while they are in camp.

• Pre-fight monitoring. Before their matches, doctors should monitor fighters’ health and well-being including vital signs and weight, providing guidance on diet and rehydration following weight cuts. Fighters unfit for combat should be discouraged from competing.

• Post-fight monitoring. After fights, post-concussionprotocols should be enforced for fighter regardless of if they win or not. Which may include reduced stimuli (including screens, loud noises) and minimal physical activity for a few days after a fight.

Fighters who have taken considerable damage during their fight should have special attention to ensure no internal bleeding and long-term injuries. Fighters who need furthermedical attention should be referred to a hospital immediately.

Kwame Masters/Boxing Ghana

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