South African boxer Simiso Buthelezi has passed on after he appeared disoriented during his WBF African Lightweight title fight on Sunday.
During his fight with Siphesihle Mntungwa, Simiso Buthelezi was caught by a hard jab from Mntungwa, who tumbled out through the ropes as Buthelezi advanced. A visibly disoriented Buthelezi strayed from his opponent towards the referee and then the opposite corner and began to throw punches at air.
The referee immediately called for a stoppage, resulting in a 10th-round TKO victory for Mntungwa.
Following the subsequent events post the fight, a press statement was released and reads as follows:
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 the 7th June 2022 at hospital in Durban.
On the 5th June 2022 Mr. Buthelezi participated in a Boxing Tournament hosted by Starline Boxing Promotions in Greyville, Durban.
Towards the end of the bout, Mr. Buthelezi collapsed and was taken to a hospital and it was discovered at the hospital that he suffered a brain injury which resulted in internal bleeding. At the hospital Mr. Buthelezi was given the best care possible but he however succumbed to the injury last night as aforesaid.
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. 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.
GMANATHI.Com would like to send our deepest condolences to the Buthelezi family.
