RIP success: Nigerian boxer’s sister dies just two days ater his burial, deepening family tragedy

Abrupt sorrow has struck the family of former Nigerian light‑heavyweight champion Gabriel “Success” Olanrewaju, after his elder sister passed away just 48 hours following his highly anticipated burial in Lagos.

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) confirmed the devastating development during an interview with TV3’s Mohammed Amin Lamptey. “He was buried successfully.

Just after two days, his elder sister also passed away.

We buried her last Friday,” Lamptey shared, revealing a fresh layer of loss upon an already grieving household people.com+11pulse.com.gh+11ghanaweb.com+11.

Olanrewaju collapsed on 29 March during a bout in Accra—his sudden death in the ring sparked shockwaves across both Ghana and Nigeria punchng.com+7people.com+7legit.ng+7.

A lingering delay of more than 80 days marred his repatriation, awaiting formal inquiries and diplomatic clearances before his body returned to Nigeria. His funeral took place on 19 June amid emotional scenes in Lagos punchng.com.

A cause of death remains undetermined, though speculation has centred on pre-existing medical vulnerabilities punchng.com+6pulse.com.gh+6legit.ng+6.

Meanwhile, no official explanation has been given for his sister’s death.

The Olanrewaju family, already bearing the weight of Gabriel’s untimely passing, now confronts a second tragedy in as many days.

Bitter grief has enveloped their home.

As details continue to emerge, many are reflecting on this cascade of heartbreak—an athlete’s life and a sister’s sorrow silenced in swift succession.

In both Nigeria and abroad, their community mourns deeply.