The International Boxing Federation has launched an independent investigation into the death of Jordanian boxer Rashid Suwaisat (19), who died last month following a head punch he sustained during his match against Estonian champion Stony Anton in the under-81 kg category at the World Youth Championships held in Poland. The organization described Rashid's situation as a "tragic death," emphasizing its commitment to learn from every possible lesson from the incident.
The international boxing federation stated in an official announcement, "The circumstances surrounding Rashid's participation in the championship will be reviewed from several aspects, primarily his medical history, injuries, review of protocols, and the treatment that followed the incident, led by Vincent Grimo, the head of sports medicine at the University Hospital of Lausanne."
The Jordanian Olympic Committee mourned its boxer Rashid Suwaisat in April, leading to widespread anger and sadness in Jordanian society and on social media. Opinions focused on the necessity to put an end to boxing or at least abolish it in Jordan, while others called for an investigation to uncover the details of Suwaisat's participation in the major event and whether his participation followed standard medical and administrative procedures.
The investigation by the International Boxing Federation comes in response to demands for a follow-up on the incident, especially since Suwaisat died in the hospital more than a week after undergoing emergency surgery. Social media erupted following the announcement of Suwaisat's death, with users questioning, including "Harith Al-Hourani," who asked, “Who allowed Rashid Suwaisat to participate? Does his level qualify him to participate? I hope there will be an investigation into the matter.” "Mohsen Aliyeh" commented, “This sport should be banned at least in Jordan, in sympathy for the young man, may he rest in peace.” Meanwhile, "Yousef Al-Omani" stated, “Originally, these combat sports are self-defense, but the West has started to practice them incorrectly through holding championships and other dangerous competitions.”
