Canadian boxer Adonis Stevenson has been upgraded from critical to stable condition but remains in a medically induced coma after being knocked out in a light heavyweight title fight in Quebec City on Saturday night.
The 41-year-old was knocked out by Ukrainian challenger Oleksandr Gvozdyk with 2:49 on the clock in the 11th round of their World Boxing Council (WBC) light heavyweight bout.
Boxing promoter Yvon Michel revealed Stevenson’s plight on Twitter, and tweeted updates on his condition throughout the day.
Stevenson was in critical condition earlier Sunday, but was later put in an induced coma, a measure used by doctors to curb the pressure caused by brain swelling and decrease pain sensations during treatment.
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Stevenson came into the fight on the back of a five-year undefeated streak, having claimed the light heavyweight belt with a 2013 victory over American Chad Dawson that earned him “Knockout of the Year” honours from The Ring magazine.
Saturday’s bout, Stevenson’s 10th title defence, went to the 11th round with the Canadian reigning champion ahead on points but the Ukrainian looking the fresher of the two.
With 2:49 left on the clock in the 11th, Gvozdyk, fighting in Canada for the first time, executed a series of flurries before landing a trio of right-hand punches that left Stevenson slumped on the canvas.
The Haitian-born, Montreal-based boxer stayed down for several minutes and required assistance to make it back to the dressing room at the Videotron Centre.
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His condition worsened after he left the shower, and he was put on a stretcher and taken to L’Enfant-Jesus de Quebec hospital, Michel said.
He appeared confused and disoriented upon arriving at the hospital, Michel added.
A person who was present in the dressing room and did want wish to be named said Stevenson could no longer stand at the time the decision was made to take him to hospital.
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WATCH: Canadian boxer Adonis Stevenson in critical condition after knockout defeat
The WBC called for prayers for Stevenson, who it described as an “exemplary human being” and a great fighter.
“May God provide the strength to overcome this unfortunate setback,” the organization tweeted.
Gvozdyk’s manager Egis Klimas told the L.A. Times that Gvozdyk’s team was aware of Stevenson’s condition and was praying for his recovery.
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— With files from the Canadian Press
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