Boxer Simiso Buthelezi Dies After Brain Injury Left Him Punching Thin Air Instead Of Opponent
The South African boxer went viral after a video of him punching the air caught fans' attention and he has now tragically died.
South African boxer Simiso Buthelezi has tragically passed away, just days after a video showing the horrendous effects of a fight went viral.
Buthelezi fought for the WBF African lightweight title fight against Siphesihle Mntungwa last weekend, knocking his opponent down in the 10th round.
However, in bizarre and awful scenes, it the Buthelezi who lost the fight just moments later, as he appeared to throw punches at thin air following the restart.
The referee realised something clearly wasn't right with him and called an end to the fight, with the fighter's trainer confirming on Tuesday night that he was in a coma.
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Sadly Boxing South Africa confirmed on Wednesday morning that the fighter had passed away.
"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," their statement confirming the news read.
"On the 5th 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. 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."
Topics: Boxing, South Africa
Ryan Sidle