Boxer Simiso Buthelezi died from a Brain Injury after the Match

A dramatic ending for a talented young fella, a 24-year-old Southafrican boxer. After nearly defeating his opponent, Simiso Buthelezi started to throw punches into the void. The referee stopped the match immediately, but for Simiso, unfortunately, it was too late.

Simiso Buthelezi, a Life taken too soon

Indeed it is a big tragedy for the Boxing World: another young life leaves the stage too soon.
He was 24 years old and the recording of Simiso punching an imaginary opponent went viral all over the world. The match that took place in Durban on the first weekend of June was valid for World Boxing Federation All Africa Lightweight.
His adversary, Siphesihle Mntungawa, was nearly knocked out by Simiso when, without notice, he turned to the other corner and started throwing punches.

It's hard to recall an event nearly as severe as this one in the boxing world.
Simiso died a few days after the match, on June 8th through an induced coma once the brain injury was detected.

Hard Time for Siphesihle, his opponent

As if it wasn't enough, Simiso's compatriot opponent was almost immediately accused of being a "murderer". Simiso was winning the match when the unpredictable happenned. As soon as Siphesihle was about to be knocked out, Simiso turned to the other corner.
While Simiso was fighting against the void, his opponent stood behind him completely still. Siphesihle did not move until the referee understood the severity of the situation and immediately declared the end of the match.
Right after, the young winner started to jump and congratulate himself on the victory - a gesture that many won't forgive him. It is pretty clear that Siphesihle did not comprehend the situation at the time, and it is understandable.

The Southafrican box federation has already requested an investigation of the case. The fact was completely unexpected and Simiso's coach said that the young man was fit and ready for the encounter. Simiso was a promising fighter, he already won 4 encounters and no great injuries were found during these.
So far we only know that Simiso probably had previous damage, as the first analysis state.

All of our respect and prayer goes to Simiso and his family for this tragic loss.
And also a lot of encouragement to the young Siphesihle who couldn't know of Simiso's damage and situation.