Boxer, 27, and dad of two tragically dies three weeks after KO defeat left him in induced coma

Heavyweight boxer Ardi Ndembo has tragically died three weeks after a KO defeat left him in an induced coma.

Ndembo, a 27-year-old father of two, was competing in Team Combat League in Florida on April 5 when he was stopped in a round by Nestor Santana. The Congolese boxer, who had a flawless record of 8-0 before the fight, was left unconscious for several minutes before being taken to a local hospital.

“We at Viva Promotions mourn the loss of Ardi Ndembo, a talented Congolese boxer who tragically passed away after a knockout in a Team Combat League match on April 5," a tweet from the promotion read. "He remained in an induced coma until his untimely death. RIP Ardi Ndembo!"

A fundraiser has since been started for Ndembo's family that currently sits at over $9000, with the description reading: "Heavyweight boxer Ardi Ndembo sustained significant injuries while competing in Miami, Florida. Team Combat League will match total third-party donations up to a maximum of $25,000 to assist the Ndembo children.

Ardi Ndembo was only 27 years old
(Image: @ardindembo/Instagram)

"Originally from Brazzaville, Congo, Ardi Ndembo is a 27-year-old father of two. Please take a moment to send your strength, prayers and financial support to the Ndembo children at this challenging time. We kindly ask all to respect the family's request for privacy at this time. Thank you for your consideration."

Team Combat League is unique because, unlike conventional bouts, boxers in a squad compete over one or two rounds to earn points. Jeff Mayweather, the uncle of boxing legend Floyd, was ringside for the fight as he told SunSport before Ndembo's passing: "I didn’t think it would happen because this format is different to usual boxing.

“Boxing is a sport where you grow up watching it and loving it, but there’s so much risk involved. Anyone can lose their life from boxing. When something like this happens, it wakes up the whole entire world. I don’t think boxing’s a bad sport because you can die in any sport. You drive a race car at 200mph, if it slides, you’re going to die too."