Death of amateur boxer after fight was an accident according to coroner

An investigation has revealed that a 23-year-old amateur boxer who died as a result of a traumatic brain injury sustained by a punch in a charity fight actually wanted to work for the British National Health Service (NHS).

Jubal Reji Kurian died four days after being knocked unconscious during a boxing match at the Harvey Hadden Sports Village in Bilborough, Nottingham, on March 25, 2023.

He suffered bleeding on both sides of his brain, killing his brain stem, after the blow to the face caused him to fall backwards to the ground, the inquest heard.

Coroner Laurinda Bower completed the inquest on Tuesday and concluded that Mr Kurian’s death was an accident.

Six months before his death, Mr Kurian had moved to the UK to study for a Masters in Sports Medicine at the University of Nottingham, but his ultimate goal was to “serve the NHS as a physiotherapist”.

His father described him as a “highly athletic person” who played many sports but had no experience in boxing and only revealed his interest in the martial arts days before the fight.

In a statement read by the coroner, Mr Kurian’s father described him as their “beloved son” who was a “valued member of the family”.

“Jubal had a special interest in charitable activities and being a force for good.

“He was determined to make a meaningful contribution to society.

“He was a dreamer and an achiever. He made his way to Bangalore to pursue a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy.”

Mr Kurian’s friend, Mr Singh, whom he met while studying in India, was present at the fight.

In a statement read by Ms Bower, he said Mr Kurian was “impressive in the ring”.

“The tables turned in the third round and seeing him knocked out is a sight that still haunts me,” it said.

“His absence is painfully felt and his future is unjustly taken from him.”

The inquest also heard from Det. Sergeant Sarah Gregg of Nottinghamshire Police, who ruled out any criminal background during the investigation into Mr Kurian’s death.

“We concluded that there was no criminal activity because we could see on the surveillance cameras that it was a boxing match. The participants had signed waivers declaring that they were taking some risk,” she told the inquiry.

“There was no intention to attack or harm anyone.”

Mrs Bower concluded: “His sudden and unexpected death is a tragedy, particularly as he boxed with the intention of helping others by raising money for charity. It speaks to what an honourable man he was.”

Addressing Mr Kurian’s opponent Ian David, she said: “I cannot imagine the level of emotion you have been going through. I am sure you are aware that you have no responsibility or accountability for what has happened.”

Ms Bower noted that Ultra White Collar Boxing, a club organized by Ultra Events that hosted the charity boxing match, followed the organization’s safety guidelines and conducted proper medical screenings of amateur boxers before and after the match.

Jonathan Leonard, Director of Ultra Events, said: “The death of Jubal as a result of this tragic accident has deeply saddened everyone at Ultra Events and we would like to continue to offer our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this very sad time.”

“Although boxing at all levels always involves a certain amount of risk, the safety and well-being of all our participants is of utmost importance to us.”