Sherif Lawal, a British boxer aged 29, collapsed and later died during his first professional boxing match. The ill-fated match, which took place at The Harrow Center in London, England, saw him compete against Malam Varela of Portugal. Following his collapse on Sunday, May 12, 2024, Lawal was rushed to Northwick Park Hospital where he was subsequently pronounced dead.
During the fourth round of the scheduled six-round fight, Lawal fell after a hit to the temple. Noting the serious nature of Lawal’s condition, referee Lee Every immediately stopped the fight. Medical personnel at the venue swiftly administered CPR in an attempt to resuscitate him.
The incident prompted the cancellation of the remaining bouts scheduled for the evening. Those present detailed the shock pervading the atmosphere, emphasizing the infrequency of such incidents in boxing despite the inherent risks associated with the sport.
Condolences and tributes flooded in upon news of Lawal’s death. Costakis Evangelou, the promoter who organized the Clash of the Titans event, extended his sympathies to Lawal’s family. He acknowledged the challenging time for the boxing community and noted that the Boxing Board would conduct a review of the incident.
Lawal started boxing in 2018 and had recently transitioned to professional boxing. CJ Hussein, the head coach at St Pancras Club, had previously commended Lawal’s exceptional talent and potential for greatness in the middleweight division. Lawal, who was regarded as an inspiration for younger boxers, was praised by Hussein.
The boxing club’s website features Lawal’s profile, where he expressed his admiration for Sugar Ray Robinson. The profile also highlighted the familial nature of the club, underlining the close bonds within the boxing community.
