Sherif Lawal Dies at Age 29 After Collapsing in Ring During Pro Boxing Debut

Middleweight boxer Sherif Lawal died after collapsing in the ring Sunday.

The British Boxing Board of Control issued a statement Monday, saying "the thoughts of all those involved in Boxing in Great Britain are with" Lawal's family:

Lawal was making his professional debut against Malam Varela. According to the Associated Press, Varela landed a blow in the fourth round that sent Lawal to the canvas. The referee called for the bell and paramedics began treating the 29-year-old at the scene.

Lawal was pronounced dead after being transported to a local hospital.

Promoters for the card on which he and Varela were competing canceled the remainder of the event.