NSF 2022:Imo boxer slumps,dies after knockout in Delta

A tragic event rocked the National Sports Festival (NSF) as death of 86kg boxer,Chucks Igboarugo in Delta state on December 6th. 

He had earlier been knocked out in a bout by his counterpart, Prince Gaby Amagor,from Delta State, slumped and died before getting to a medical centre in Asaba.

Following his knockout loss to Amagor, Igboarugo tried to walk out of the Asaba Events Centre which was the venue of the bout, when he slumped. He drew  the attention of medics, who battled to resuscitate him without success. 

Doctors placed him on oxygen and tried to stabilise him, but he died before getting to the hospital.

The Nigeria Boxing Federation Secretary General, Akinyele Durotoye, spoke on the sad incident where he said the death of Igboarugo came as a surprise as he was fit before going into the match.

“He was well and okay and did not show any sign of distress. His coach was with him but stepped out to get some equipment momentarily, unsuspecting the boxer was in danger.

“It’s one of those tragedies we see at sports venues with athletes having underlying health conditions. It is unfortunate we lost him, but his death has nothing to do with the bout,” Durotoye said.

An official of the Local Organising committee (LOC) who pleaded anonymity, revealed that the boxing events would continue.  

“We have no reason to stop the bouts since it was an accident outside the ring. Besides, the medics and medical facilities are adequate to deal with any emergency,” the official said.