Boxer Simiso Buthelezi Dies From Brain Injury After Fighting Thin Air Instead Of Opponent During Fight

By Samantha in Sports On 8th June 2022
advertisement
advertisement
Read More

Boxer Simiso Buthelezi has passed away following a fatal brain injury that placed him in a coma following a fight on June 5, Sunday.

The South African's bout against Siphesihle Mntungwa was called off in the 10th round when Buthelezi began swinging at thin air.

The boxer was placed in an induced coma but tragically passed away on June 7, Tuesday. 

Credit: SABC Sport
advertisement

Following the tragic news, a joint statement issued by Boxing South Africa and the Buthelezi family read:

"It is with great sadness for Boxing South Africa and the Buthelezi family to announce the passing away of Mr. Simiso Buthelezi who passed away last night 7 June 2022 at hospital in Durban.

"On 5 June 2022 Mr. Buthelezi participated in a Boxing Tournament hosted by Starline Boxing Promotions at Greyville, Durban.

"Towards the end of his bout, Mr. Buthelezi collapsed and was taken to hospital and it was discovered at the hospital that he suffered a brain injury which resulted in internal bleeding.

Credit: SABC Sport
advertisement
Follow On Google News

"At the hospital Mr. Buthelezi was given the best care possible but he however succumbed to the injury last night as aforesaid."

The statement continued:

"Boxing South Africa will conduct an independent medical review of the injury and will then make public the results of that medical review.

"The Buthelezi family and Boxing South Africa acknowledges warm words of condolences of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture.

"The Buthelezi family and Boxing South Africa will in due course make announcement on funeral arrangements.

Credit: SABC Sport
advertisement

"Boxing South Africa and the Buthelezi family wishes to request members of the public and the media to give them space while mourning the passing away of this great boxer who was exemplary both outside and inside the ring."

Before the incident, it seemed like Buthelezi was heading towards victory at Greyville Convention Centre, maintaining his undefeated record of 4-0, after sending Mntungwa falling backward through the ropes.

Credit: SABC Sport
advertisement
Follow On Twitter

But things went awry when Buthelezi began throwing punches in thin air and started to hit in the direction of the referee and kept on slumping on the ropes.

The referee immediately sensed something was wrong and so called off the fight, handing Mntungwa the WBF African lightweight title - though the belt ceremony was postponed.

Credit: SABC Sport