On Monday, April 11th, a 28-year-old MMA welterweight fighter, Joao Carvalho, died following a loss at Total Extreme Fighting in Dublin, Ireland. The fight took place a few days prior on Saturday.
The event was held at Dublin’s National Stadium and the fighter’s death was confirmed by a statement from the promoter, TEF.
“The TEF Team are deeply saddened by the news of Joo Carvalhos death. Last night 11th of April, mixed martial artist Joo 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.”
Carvalho, who was Portugese and a member of Team Nobrega, fought Irishman Charlie Ward who had UFC star Conor McGregor’s coach, John Kavanagh, in his corner. Kavanagh issued a statement.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Portuguese fighter Joao Carvalho. Our condolences and thoughts, though, are with Joao’s family and friends and we kindly ask everyone to respect their privacy at this time.”
According to CNN, Carvalho complained of feeling unwell after Saturday’s fight was stopped by the referee in the third round. He was taken to hospital and had emergency brain surgery that night but died on Monday evening after 48 hours in intensive care.
“Following the referee stoppage Joo, who was representing Portuguese club Team Nobrega, was assessed by doctors and medical staff at the onsite medical office as per normal procedure,” said the statement from TEF. “It was determined that he should be sent to hospital. In the hospital, he received emergency treatment and was transferred to ICU later that evening. Formal hospital medical reports and procedures are still being carried out.”
Cesar Silva, CEO of TEF, also issued a statement.
We extend our most sincere condolences to the family of Joo Carvalhos and his teammates in Team Nobrega. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. Wed also like to thank all sports fans for their concern and support. We will give whatever support we can to Joaos 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.
