Boxer Simiso Buthelezi Dies After Starting To Punch Thin Air Instead Of Opponent During Fight

South African boxer Simiso Buthelezi died after being placed into a coma following a fight on Sunday, June 5. Buthelezi was fighting Siphesihle Mntungwa but the match was called off in the tenth round after Buthelezi became disoriented and began punching the air rather than his opponent.

SAD NEWS:
South African boxer Simiso Buthelezi, has died after he was hospitalised during his bout when he began swinging at nothing, in particular, following a shot to his head

His death was confirmed in a statement by Boxing South Africa & the Buthelezi family

RIP Simiso 🥺 pic.twitter.com/Ip3KPD01j3

— The Bearded Mc🧔🏽‍♂️🎙🗯 (@Oscarnuwati) June 8, 2022

1. Buthelezi was rushed to the hospital after the match. He was placed into an induced coma so that doctors could investigate what was going on, but he sadly died on Tuesday, June 7. “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,” read a joint statement issued by Boxing South Africa and the Buthelezi family.
2. Buthelezi suffered a bleed on the brain. As the statement revealed, doctors discovered that “he suffered a brain injury which resulted in internal bleeding.” They went on to say that while Buthelezi received “the best care possible,” he eventually “succumbed to the injury” and passed away.
3. An independent medical review of his injuries will be undertaken. Boxing South Africa says they’ll publish the results of the independent inquiry when they’re available. They further asked members of the press and public to allow the family to grieve privately. “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,” the statement requested.
4. Simiso Buthelezi appeared to be on the verge of winning the fight. Had he taken the win, he would have kept his undefeated record of 4-0. However, once he began throwing punches at thin air and collapsing on the ropes, it became apparent that he was in no state to continue. It is unclear whether he received the brain injury during the fight or if it happened during training.