João Carvalho: The story of the MMA fighter who died from a cage fight

João Carvalho was a Portuguese MMA fighter who died from the effects of a cage fight when he was only 28 years old. His sad story has contributed to a greater concern for the health and safety of fighters.

João Carvalho died at the age of 28 from the aftermath of an MMA fight

Combat sports as such are certainly a dangerous sport, but in recent years, the utmost care has been given to the health of fighters. This was helped by Portuguese fighter João Carvalho, who died from the aftermath of a cage fight.

Carvalho was fighting at welterweight for the Portuguese organization International Pro Combat when he signed with the Irish organization Total Extreme Fighting (TEF) after two professional fights. However, his decision proved to be fatal.

His third professional fight of his career took place on April 9, 2016 in Dublin, Ireland against Charlie Ward, who was, among others, a teammate of the legendary Conor McGregor. He landed a series of hard elbows and punches on his opponent in the third round and the referee stopped the fight on a TKO. But it wasn’t the only fight he lost.

After the fight, Carvalho was rushed to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where he was diagnosed with a severe brain hemorrhage. Despite emergency surgery, Carvalho died two days later at just 28 years old.

The tragic story has helped to improve the health care of the fighters

The incident sparked a heated debate about fighter safety in MMA and the TEF tournament was investigated by Irish health and safety authorities. As a result, new safety measures have been introduced, not only in Irish MMA.

Among these were stricter medical checks for fighters before and after fights, including mandatory CT scans and neurological examinations. There were also improved safety protocols for doctors and medical staff attending MMA tournaments and increased oversight by regulators and safety officials.

Following Carvalho’s death, a huge wave of sympathy and support has risen from the MMA community around the world. Many fighters, promoters and fans have expressed their shock and sadness at the tragic loss of the young athlete.

Although the death of João Carvalho was a tragic event that highlighted the risks associated with MMA and other combat sports. But it has also sparked positive change and renewed efforts to ensure the safety and welfare of fighters around the world.

Sources: Mirror, Youtube – DomisLive News