Delta State commissioner for information, Charles Aniagwu, has said that the boxer who lost his life, on Monday, at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Asaba died a hero.

The boxer representing Imo State, Chukwuemeka Igboanugo, died during his fight against Anambra’s Prince Amagor at the Event Centre, Okpanam in Delta State.

Addressing press officers at a briefing on Wednesday, Aniagwu said, “The day before he fought, he had come and been examined usually by the medical team and they found his blood pressure was not normal and so he was asked to leave and return for a second checkup.

“He returned after a while, and his BP has returned to normal but he was asked before he returned to the game that he should return again for another check which unfortunately he did not do,” Aniagwu said.

The Commissioner then narrated the details of what caused the boxer’s demise.

“By the time the game started, after some time, it was discovered that he had a little bleeding on the nose, the medics wanted to stop but he was desirous of victory and his coach and team were also desirous of victory not knowing that some other development had occurred internally,” he said.

Aniagwu hailed the late athlete as he died a heroic death in the ring.

“He died a hero’s death as he was patriotic to his state, and to his country,” he said.

The Imo State representative was declared dead after losing a fight by knockout to his contender from Anambra State in the 86 kg category.

According to eyewitness accounts, the boxer was hit in the chin during the fight and failed to get up, leading the referee to announce the fight in favour of his Anambra contender.

With the boxer remaining unconscious, he was said to have been given first aid treatment before being taken to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.