Boxer Simiso Buthelezi, who completely lost his bearings while participating in a tournament hosted by Starline Boxing Promotions at Greville in Durban at the weekend, has passed away.
The Buthelezi family and Boxing South Africa on Wednesday issued a joint statement announcing the boxer’s passing.
“It is with great sadness for Boxing South Africa and the Buthelezi family to announce the passing away of Mr. Simiso Bothelezi,” said the statement.
The boxer, who was in an induced coma, died at a Durban hospital on Tuesday night at the age of 24 years.
During the WBF All Africa title fight on Sunday Buthelezi floored his opponent Siphesihle Mntungwa.
Bizarrely, Buthelezi, who looked disorientated turned his back when his opponent was on his feet and ready to box.
As if unable to see, Buthelezi appeared to chase after the ref before throwing punches at an empty corner.
The fight was called off and Buthelezi was taken to King Edward VIII Hospital.
It has since been established that the boxer suffered a brain injury that resulted in internal bleeding.
However, Boxing South Africa said it would conduct an independent medical review of the injury and make the results public.
Funeral arrangements for the young boxer, who has just completed his degree in botany and zoology, will be announced in due course.
