Segun Olanrewaju, fondly known as ‘Success,’ was a Nigerian boxer who spent years chasing support for his boxing career but was largely ignored until his tragic death. His wife, Adebusola Olanrewaju, revealed they were together for nearly five years and married for two. They had two children—one almost two years old, the other nine months. Despite his challenges, Segun remained a devoted father, often bathing, feeding, and playing with their kids while also posting joyful moments with them online, even when others mocked him.
Adebusola recalled how Segun travelled frequently, trying to find sponsors or assistance to push his boxing dreams forward. She expressed frustration over how people only began posting tributes after his death, despite ignoring him when he won his first title. She mentioned that before he travelled to Ghana for a match, he was asked to lose intentionally, but he refused, stating he was there to grow his career. Tragically, he died before returning home. She last spoke to him around 11 p.m. on a Saturday and was later informed of his death early the next morning.
His mother, Mrs Olanrewaju, raised him since 1993 after the death of their father. She described Segun as gentle, honest, and hardworking. He tried multiple vocations—including music, bricklaying, and boxing—before finally becoming a world champion. She helped his wife during both childbirths and said Segun stored his training equipment and bus at her house. He had plans to start a commercial transport business upon returning from Ghana.
His sister, Rachel Olanrewaju, was devastated by the news, explaining how Segun was the only male child and brought joy to those around him. She shared that he had once pursued music and also trained kids in his community. She was on her way to church when she heard the heartbreaking news of his death. According to her, it felt like a scene from a tragic film—people crying, the home filled with mourners. She said she never imagined her brother would die this young, especially after all they had endured together as a family.
The family has now been left with immense grief and unanswered questions, calling on the public not to let Segun’s death be in vain.
Read the full story: Punch.com
