Sherif Lawal: London-based boxer dies aged 29 after collapsing in first professional fight

A London-based boxer has died after losing on his professional debut at Harrow Leisure Centre on Sunday.

Sherif Lawal was knocked down by Portuguese opponent Malam Varela in the fourth of a scheduled six-round middleweight contest and the bout was waved off by referee Lee Every.

Paramedics at the scene tended to Lawal, who was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital where the 29-year-old was pronounced dead.

A British Boxing of Control statement said: "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."

The fight was the first of the evening and the announcement of Lawal's death led to the cancellation of the rest of the card.

Lawal’s agency, Warren Boxing Management, added: "We would like to send our condolences to all of Sherif’s family, friends, coaches and all those close to him at this tragic time.”