By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South African lightweight boxer Simiso Buthelezi has tragically died.
Buthelezi, who seemed to lose consciousness during a World Boxing Federation Africa lightweight title fight in Durban on Sunday, passed away on Tuesday night.
He had been in an induced coma after losing his bearings in the 10th round in his fight with Siphesihle Mntungwa.
It was later confirmed that the fighter was in a ‘stable condition’ and being monitored after receiving medical attention in Durban.
Fans theorised that Buthelezi may have suffered heat exhaustion before becoming disoriented, although it is currently winter in South Africa.
Boxing South Africa shared the news of Buthelezi’s passing on Wednesday morning.
“It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Simiso Buthelezi,” read a statement by BSA and the Buthelezi family.
The statement further mentions that Buthelezi suffered a brain injury which resulted in internal bleeding.
I was at the #boxing in KZN yesterday and this is one of the strangest and saddest things I’ve seen in the sport. Thoughts and prayers with Simiso Buthelezi who is now in an induced coma in hospital ???? @SABC_Sport #SizenzaZonke pic.twitter.com/1097yFtKmY
— Tracksuit (@ThabisoMosia) June 6, 2022
BSA said they would conduct an independent medical review of the injury and will then make public the results.
Buthelezi boasted an undefeated professional record of 4-0 before his clash at the Greyville Convention Centre but came away with his first career defeat, although that was unlikely to be his primary concern following the worrying scenes.