Serious questions have been raised over the death on Sunday of 23 year-old boxer Joel Hayeu, who was making his professional debut.
The 23 year-old died from head injuries sustained in a bout against Kevin Baki at the Sport Inn, Port Moresby, Papa New Guinea on June 21. In a fierce battle both boxers received standing eight counts over the six rounds, which Baki won via a split decision, 60-58, 60-59, 59-60.
The handling of the bout, which was sanctioned and officiated by the PNG Pro Boxing Federation, has been heavily criticized by former Australian heavyweight champion Jeff Malcolm, who told the PNG’s National newspaper "That kid was hurt pretty bad, and it was clear for everyone to see that he was taking a beating," Malcolm said.
"But for some reason he was allowed to finish the fight.
"He fought with a lot of heart and I don’t think I ever saw a braver fighter in all my time."
In response the promoter of the 10 bout card Nick Calibud, told tvnz.co.nz: "He (Joel) was checked by the doctor and referee and they asked him if he was okay to fight and he said he was OK so they let the fight continue."
June 30, 2009
|
Subscribe to feed
