British middleweight boxer Sherif Lawal tragically passed away after collapsing in the ring during his professional debut in London.

Lawal was knocked down by Portuguese opponent Malam Varela in the fourth round of the match at the Harrow Leisure Center.

Lawal pictures before his tragic death on his debut. Pictures courtesy of Naijapals & Gistmania

Despite receiving immediate medical attention in the ring and being rushed to the hospital, the 29-year-old boxer did not survive, as reported by The Guardian.

In a statement, Warren Boxing Management, the company representing Lawal, expressed their deep sorrow: “Unfortunately during Sherif’s fight, he collapsed and despite the best efforts of the paramedics, he was later pronounced dead.”

Following the heartbreaking incident, both the British Boxing Board of Control and Warren Boxing Management extended their heartfelt condolences to Lawal’s family, friends, coach, and all his loved ones.

Heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury also shared his sympathies, saying, “God rest his soul, poor old fella. We all know the dangers of getting in the ring,”

Tragically, deaths in the ring are not uncommon in the world of boxing.