UK-based boxer Sherif Lawal tragically passed away at the age of 29 after collapsing during his professional debut. The incident occurred during a middleweight bout against Portuguese opponent Malam Varela at Harrow Leisure Centre.
Born and raised in London, Lawal discovered his passion for boxing at an early age. His dedication to the sport led him to local gyms, where he honed his skills and dreamt of making it big on the professional stage.
Lawal’s moment arrived when he stepped into the ring for his professional debut. The excitement was palpable as he faced off against Portuguese opponent Malam Varela at Harrow Leisure Centre. Unfortunately, fate had other plans.
Tragedy Strikes Sherif Lawal
In the fourth round of the scheduled six-round fight, Sherif Lawal was knocked down by Varela. Referee Lee Every intervened, recognizing the severity of the situation. Ringside doctors and paramedics worked tirelessly to revive Lawal, but their efforts were in vain. He was pronounced dead after being rushed to Northwick Park Hospital.
29-year-old boxer Sherif Lawal died after getting knocked out in his first professional fight on Sunday. 🕊
All we know 👉 https://t.co/GbxdTGgRc5
— TMZ (@TMZ) May 14, 2024
Condolences and Reactions
The British Boxing Board of Control expressed its condolences to Sherif Lawal’s family, stating, “The thoughts of all those involved in Boxing in Great Britain are with them at this difficult time.” The British & Irish Boxing Authority (Biba) and Warren Boxing Management also conveyed their sympathies.
After this heartbreaking incident fans from all around the world are questioning whether combat sports are morally right. There have been countless instances where we have seen fighter lose their lives in the ring or become handicapped for the rest of his or her lives. We have also seen MMA artists and boxers suffer different mental problems and nerve-related problems in the later stages of life. It is the money that drags young boys into this business and some turn into legends and some disappear in the pages of history.