In a tragic incident, Nigerian boxer Sherif Lawal has passed away after a knockout in his debut professional fight. Representing the UK, Lawal entered the ring for his first professional bout on Sunday, May 11, 2024, against Portuguese opponent Malam Varela at the Harrow Leisure Centre.
The 29-year-old boxer endured until the sixth round, having previously been knocked down in the fourth. A critical blow in the sixth round caused him to collapse face-first, prompting immediate medical attention. Despite swift transportation to the hospital, Lawal was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Warren Boxing Management, the fight promoters, expressed deep regret, stating, “Unfortunately during Sherif’s fight, he collapsed and despite the best efforts of the paramedics, he was later pronounced dead.”
The British Boxing Board of Control extended heartfelt sympathies to Lawal’s family, expressing, “Condolences to the family of Sherif Lawal following his tragic passing. The thoughts of all those involved in boxing in Great Britain are with them at this difficult time,” as reported by the Guardian.
