co-main event fighter dies. first televised fight.
Payne passes away after fight
Tragedy has struck in Evansville, Indiana. Popular local welterweight Kevin Payne, who won a rugged eight-round split decision over Ryan Maraldo on Saturday in a nationally televised bout, died Sunday afternoon due to brain injuries suffered in that bout. The 34-year-old fighter underwent brain surgery in an attempt to save his life at Deaconess Hospital, but sadly did not pull through. "Kevin fought with passion, determination and a deep respect for the sport of boxing," said promoter Octavius James. "I cannot overstate the joy and admiration Kevin evoked in those around him, and he will be sorely and deeply missed for a very long time." Kevin is survived by his wife, Jenny Payne, two children, siblings and his extended family, many of whom were by his side throughout this ordeal. Payne had recently became a hometown hero after he ran down a purse-snatcher at the local Wal-Mart and was in line to face Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in the coming weeks. Fightnews sends condolences to Kevin Payne's loved ones at this time of sorrow
Payne passes away after fight
Tragedy has struck in Evansville, Indiana. Popular local welterweight Kevin Payne, who won a rugged eight-round split decision over Ryan Maraldo on Saturday in a nationally televised bout, died Sunday afternoon due to brain injuries suffered in that bout. The 34-year-old fighter underwent brain surgery in an attempt to save his life at Deaconess Hospital, but sadly did not pull through. "Kevin fought with passion, determination and a deep respect for the sport of boxing," said promoter Octavius James. "I cannot overstate the joy and admiration Kevin evoked in those around him, and he will be sorely and deeply missed for a very long time." Kevin is survived by his wife, Jenny Payne, two children, siblings and his extended family, many of whom were by his side throughout this ordeal. Payne had recently became a hometown hero after he ran down a purse-snatcher at the local Wal-Mart and was in line to face Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in the coming weeks. Fightnews sends condolences to Kevin Payne's loved ones at this time of sorrow
