Gardaí have confirmed that a file is being prepared for Dublin Coroner’s Court following the tragic death of Joao Carvalho after a bout at a mixed martial arts event last weekend.
The Gardaí investigation is one of two confirmed to SportsJOE on Wednesday morning, with the Health and Safety Authority also launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Carvalho’s death on Monday night following a TKO defeat at Total Extreme Fighting in the National Stadium, Dublin, on Saturday.
The Garda Press Office stressed the point that an investigation is the case for all instances of sudden death and this is the standard protocol for all cases of this type.
The Health and Safety Authority statement reads: “Generally people who suffer injury or death during sporting activity fall outside of the remit of the HSA.
“We will however examine the circumstances of this tragic incident to determine if there is an employer-employee relationship and if we have a role.”
Joao Carvalho passed away at 9.35pm on Monday night, two days after losing by TKO in a welterweight bout with SBG fighter Charlie Ward.
The Portuguese fighter appeared lucid immediately after the fight but his condition soon worsened in the dressing room and he was taken to hospital after vomiting.
The Irish Amateur Pankration Association also released a statement following Tuesday’s news of Carvalho’s passing, setting up a GoFundMe page in a bid to raise funds to cover Carvalho’s funeral.
The IAPA statement reads: “It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Portuguese MMA competitor, Joao Carvalho. On Saturday, April 9, Joao suffered a medical issue following his bout at Total Extreme Fighting (TEF) Championship at the National Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. Our condolences and thoughts are with Joao’s family and friends.
“We kindly ask the MMA community to give their support to Joao’s family by donating to this fund to help cover funeral and related costs. Every small donation will help.
“Please share and encourage others to generously give their support to the family of Joao Carvalho.”
