MMA fighter dies aged 23 following knockout blow during championship fight

An MMA fighter has tragically passed away after being punched in the head during a kickboxing fight.

As reported by News.com.au, 23-year-old Nikhil Suresh tragically died on Wednesday - days after being knocked out by his opponent during their state-level K-1 kickboxing bout.

A heartbreaking statement from Nikhil's coach, Vikram Nagaraj, revealed the news. Nagaraj said: "With profound sadness, I shoulder the burden of breaking the terrible news that we all dreaded. My boy Nikhil decided to hang his gloves today.

"His beautiful soul left us behind after a hard-fought battle in the early hours of today in spite of the best medical attention.

"He will be etched eternally on our hearts and memories. I am shattered beyond words by my loss.

"Today I have lost a son. We pray almighty to give us all enough strength to bear the unbearable. My deepest condolences."

Nikhil Suresh, wearing blue, during the fight. Credit: Twitter

Police have launched an investigation into the organizers of the fight after Nikhil's father launched a complaint accusing them of negligence.

Per the Times of India, investigators have reportedly paid a visit to the Rapid Fitness Gym in Jnanabharati, India, where the fight took place.

The fight - which took place on Sunday, July 10 - was part of the state-level K-1 kickboxing championship organized by the K-1 Kickboxing Association of Karnataka.

Footage from the fight shows the moment Nagaraj's opponent strikes him in the face with a punch, causing the young fighter to collapse to the mat. After the referee checks on the motionless Nikhil, he officially ends the fight.

Moments later, concerned onlookers start to enter the ring to check on Nikhil.

Sadly, despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Nikhil died just four days later as a result of his injuries.

Credit: Twitter

A police source told the Times of India: "The spot inspection will play a vital role in proving or disproving negligence charges involving the organisers, as claimed by Nikhil’s father."

Authorities have also stated that the organizer of the event, Naveen Ravishankar, is missing.

Nikhil was viewed as a promising prospect in India's MMA scene. News.com.au reports that he had recently participated in the 6th Open MMA Championship in Karnataka after taking part in the 5th MMA India Nationals in Madhya Pradesh.

Our thoughts go out to Nikhil's loved ones at this time.

Featured image credit: Guy Corbishley / Alamy