MMA fighter Joao Carvalho, 28, died following a rough third-round technical knockout loss in Dublin, Ireland.
The Portuguese welterweight, who fought Straight Blast Gym fighter Charlie Ward Saturday night at the National Boxing Stadium, passed away at 9:35 p.m. local time Monday, according to a statement released by his team, Nobrega Team on Tuesday.
According to Nobrega Team, the medical staff of Total Extreme Fighting followed all the safety protocols after the fight, and rushed Carvalho to the Beaumont Hospital 20 minutes after the contest after he started to feel bad. Carvalho underwent brain surgery immediately and stayed in critical condition for 48 hours.
"Even though we had the permanent medical care from the promotion’s staff and the Irish hospital, to whom we thank for the support in this tough moment," read the statement, "and even though we know the risks of this sport, Joao Carvalho’s passing is, in my professional point of view, unfortunate, and makes us, his family and the entire Nobrega Team -- which followed Joao Carvalho through his entire career, which gained notoriety nationwide and internationally --, saddened and heartbroken."
Ward’s coach on SBG, John Kavanagh reacted to the news on his Facebook page.
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Portuguese fighter Joao Carvalho. On Saturday, April 9, the fighter...
Publicado por Coach John Kavanagh em Terça, 12 de abril de 2016
The promotion also released a statement on its official website.
The TEF Team is deeply saddened by the news of João Carvalho’s death. Last night 11th of April, mixed martial artist João Carvalho passed away after 2 days of the best medical care and treatment in Beaumont Hospital following his three round TKO stoppage defeat on Saturday 9th April at the National Stadium in Dublin.
Following the referee stoppage João, who was representing Portuguese club Team Nobrega, was assessed by doctors and medical staff at the onsite medical office as per normal procedure. It was determined that he should be sent to hospital. In hospital he received emergency treatment and transferred to ICU later that evening. Formal hospital medical reports and procedures are still being carried out. João was 28 years of age.
Cesar Silva, CEO of TEF said "We extend our most sincere condolences to the family of João Carvalho’s and his teammates in Team Nobrega. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. We’d also like to thank all sports fans for their concern and support. We will give whatever support we can to Joao’s family."
"We have been in contact with his family and they have requested that we all understand their need for privacy at this difficult time."
The final minute of the bout can be seen below: