Ludumo Lamati is finally back home in South Africa
South African fighter Ludumo Lamati (21-1-1, 11KO) traveled to England on May 27th to face undefeated Nick Ball (18-0, 11KO), 26, of Liverpool, who was defending his WBC featherweight silver belt for the third time.
Ludumo fought a competitive fight; however, he was overwhelmed in the 12th and final round, when his corner threw in the towel. But as he walked back to the corner, he collapsed and had to receive medical care.
Medical staff and paramedics from the British Boxing Board of Control immediately administered treatment including oxygen and effective first aid.
31-year-old Ludumo was carried out of the ring on a stretcher and rushed by ambulance to the Critical Care Unit at the Royal Victoria Hospital. All this was done within the vital period known as “Golden Hour”. There he underwent surgery to remove from him a blood clot and was placed in an induced coma to stop the swelling.
Thanks to the timely, crucial and effective actions of the regulatory body and the company that presented the show: “Queensberry Promotions”, Ludumo Lamati managed to win the most important battle of his life with great heart, courage and resilience.
This story leaves us with important experiences of togetherness, strength and empathy, as efforts such as those of Frank Warren and Queensberry who helped the transport his mother and fiancée to be with Ludumo in the most difficult moments, as well as the actions of Hugh O’Halloran of Belfast Boxers who established a Go Fund Me page to support the stricken boxer.
The World Boxing Council congratulated all those who were involved in caring for Ludumo. Thanks to all of you, Ludumo is now in his country, recovering with his spirit at its highest and ready to resume his life alongside the people he loves.
His last opponent, WBC #2 featherweight Nick Ball, halted his celebrations on the night out of respect and concern for his brave counterpart. He even said during his ringside interview that he wasn't able to celebrate the win until he knew his opponent was ok. Relieved, the Liverpool champion wished him well, "I'm glad to hear he's back home with his family where he belongs."
Ball's trainer, Paul Stevenson, was also delighted to hear the good news, "We're all very happy to hear that Ludumo is back home where he belongs and is recovering well. Big well done to the doctors who saw him through his darkest hours."
Speaking on behalf of the Everton Red Triangle gym in Liverpool, Paul added, "We wish Ludumo all the best for the future and his continuing recovery."
Article sponsored by HÖRFA