A 30-year-old man from the United Kingdom collapsed and passed away shortly after participating in his debut Muay Thai kickboxing match in Thailand. The incident occurred at the Samui International Muay Thai Stadium in Koh Samui, Surant Thani province, around 9:30 pm on Friday, as reported by Thai media outlet Khaosod English.
During the third round of the fight, the British fighter, whose identity has not been disclosed, received a kick to his right rib cage from his opponent, prompting the referee to intervene. Following the referee’s decision to stop the match, the man left the ring, removed his gloves, but began to feel unwell while unwrapping his hand bandages.
According to Khaosod English, he experienced difficulty breathing, muscle tension, and eventually collapsed, requiring immediate attention from his trainer. The coach administered CPR until emergency services arrived and transported the man to Thai International Hospital, located less than two miles away. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead around 11 pm.
An autopsy was conducted at Koh Samui Hospital, and Thai authorities are conducting an investigation into the circumstances of his death. They are collaborating with the British Embassy to inform the man’s family about the tragic incident.
In response to the situation, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated, “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Thailand.” The Daily Star sought comments from the FCDO regarding the incident.