Boxing world in mourning following shock death of Sherifdeen Lawal
29-year-old Sherifdeen Lawal tragically lost his life after taking a shot in the temple.
Lawal was the first fight on the ‘Clash of the Titans’ bill on the Sunday May 12 event at the Harrow Leisure Centre in London.
Sherif was up against Portugese-born, Manchester-based Malam Varela in his professional debut.
Lawal was hurt at the end of round three, then took a right hand to the temple in the fourth round. Referee Lee Every started a 10-count only to immediately wave it off after realising just how hurt Lawal was.
Doctors worked on him for 20 minutes, including the use of CPR and defibrillator.
The promoter of the event, Costakis Evangelou MBE, whose son Chris was a professional boxer, told The Sun, “This was a tragic incident, and my profound sympathies go out to Sherif’s family.
“It’s a difficult time for everyone involved in the boxing fraternity and we’re trying to absorb what’s happened. No one wants to see something like this in any sport.
“Sherif was a great boxer and man. It’s now in the hands of the Board and they’re going to assess the incident.”
The BBBofC released the following statement:
“The British Boxing Board of Control sends their condolences to the family of Sherifdeen Lawal following his tragic passing after his Boxing contest on Sunday, 12th May 2024.
“The thoughts of all those involved in Boxing in Great Britain are with them at this difficult time.”
Trained by CJ Hussein, Sherif had been boxing since 2018. He won amateur boxing titles with St. Pancras ABC.
BBN would also like to extend their deepest condolences to all of Sherif’s family and friends during this very difficult time.