Popular Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Joao Carvalho has died following a rough third-round technical knockout loss in Dublin, Ireland. The 28-year-old Portuguese welterweight was in action against Straight Blast Gym fighter Charlie Ward on Saturday April 9 at the National Boxing Stadium.
He passed away about 48 hours later according to a statement released by his team, Nobrega Team today April 12. The Nobrega Team explained that the medical staff of Total Extreme Fighting took all the necessary safety protocols after the fight, and immediately took Carvalho to the Beaumont Hospital a few minutes after the bout as his condition got worse.
Carvalho underwent brain surgery immediately and stayed in critical condition for 48 hours. “Even though we had the permanent medical care from the promotion’s staff and the Irish hospital, to whom we thank for the support in this tough moment,” read the statement.
“Even though we know the risks of this sport, Joao Carvalho’s passing is, in my professional point of view, unfortunate, and makes us, his family and the entire Nobrega Team, which followed Joao Carvalho through his entire career, which gained notoriety nationwide and internationally, saddened and heartbroken.”
Ward’s coach on SBG, John Kavanagh reacted to the news on his Facebook page.
"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Portuguese fighter Joao Carvalho. On Saturday, April 9, the fighter suffered a medical issue following his three round TKO stoppage loss at a Total Extreme Fighting (TEF) Championship event at the National Stadium in Dublin Ireland. IAPA is working diligently with TEF to gather and evaluate all relevant facts and event processes and will participate in any investigation. Our condolences and thoughts, though, are with Joao’s family and friends and we kindly ask everyone to respect their privacy at this time."