Simiso Buthelezi, a South African boxer, was placed in a dangerously medically-induced coma after losing equilibrium and attacking an invisible opponent.
Buthelezi, previously undefeated, fought Siphesihle Matungwa to win the vacant title of World Boxing Federation African Lightweight.
Simiso Buthelezi was poised to win the decision over Siphesihle Matungwa
Buthelezi boxed well and appeared on track to win a unanimous decision victory.
After dropping Mntungwa in an intense tenth-round fight, he lost his balance and began throwing punches at an empty corner after the referee crossed its line of vision.
Buthelezi was able to throw multiple punches through ropes, prompting ref to end the contest.
Buthelezi was treated by ringside doctors and then taken to the hospital where he was placed in a coma.
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However, the lightweight is in a stable condition and will be monitored for the next few days.
Tim Boxeo, boxing reporter, tweeted: "Sources suggest that Simiso Buthelezi appears to be in stable health in South Africa. In the coming days more information will be available about what could have caused an unusual and frightening response in the ring."
The footage stunned boxing fans around the world and they quickly sent their best wishes to South Africa.
One tweet: "Scary stuff. Hope everyone's healthy.
Another one said, "Holy f**k! That's terrifying. Hope he's alright."
Another said, "Concussion plus Dehydration?" This is frightening. We hope he is okay.
One commentator said, "Never seen that in boxing before." It's very scary.
Another voiced his concern: "We pray that the he is okay."
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"For the love and favor of God, tell him when he has made a complete recovery that it's time for them to go.
"Boxing is not worth the pain, suffering and years that follow."
