A man in his 30s has died days after suffering repeated blows to the head during an amateur boxing match held at a gym in Taipei.
According to reports, the victim, identified only by his surname Chen, took part in a beginner-level combat event organised by a boxing gym in Taipei’s Songshan District on May 16.
During the match, Chen was repeatedly struck in the head by his opponent and reportedly began showing signs of physical distress as the fight progressed.
Officials said the referee temporarily paused the fight at one stage to assess his condition before allowing the match to continue.
However, Chen later struggled to maintain stable movement inside the ring, prompting the referee to officially stop the bout for safety reasons.
After the match ended, on-site medical and safety personnel continued monitoring his condition and reportedly advised him to seek hospital treatment as soon as possible.
Chen later went to hospital on his own, but reportedly lost consciousness later that same day.
Despite receiving emergency treatment and remaining hospitalised for several days, he was pronounced dead on May 20.
Police have since launched an investigation into the incident and questioned the gym owner as well as Chen’s opponent.
Authorities said the case has been forwarded for investigation under allegations related to negligent homicide.
Investigators revealed Chen had been involved in boxing for more than a year before joining the exchange tournament.
Preliminary findings showed Chen had signed risk acknowledgement documents before participating in the event.
Police also reviewed footage from the fight and stated both competitors appeared to be wearing proper protective gear throughout the match.
No evidence of illegal strikes, including attacks to the back of the head, was reportedly found in the video recordings.
Following discussions with investigators and prosecutors, Chen’s family reportedly indicated they do not intend to pursue further legal action against those involved.
A preliminary examination by forensic officials suggested Chen’s death may have been linked to intracranial bleeding caused by head trauma sustained during the fight.
Authorities said investigations are still ongoing.
