MMA fighter Joao Carvalho has passed away.
The Portuguese was critically injured during his Total Extreme Fighting (TEF) defeat to Irishman Charlie Ward at the National Stadium on Saturday night.
He was taken to Beaumont Hospital following the fight, where he underwent emergency surgery.
However, it has been confirmed by his team, Nobrega, that 28 year old Carvalho passed away last night.
TEF also confirmed the news this morning.
“The TEF Team are deeply saddened by the news of João Carvalho’s death.
"Last night 11th of April, mixed martial artist João Carvalho passed away after 2 days of the best medical care and treatment in Beaumont Hospital following his three round TKO stoppage defeat on Saturday 9th April at the National Stadium in Dublin”
“Following the referee stoppage João, who was representing Portuguese club Team Nobrega, was assessed by doctors and medical staff at the onsite medical office as per normal procedure.
"It was determined that he should be sent to hospital.
"In hospital he received emergency treatment and transferred to ICU later that evening. Formal hospital medical reports and procedures are still being carried out.
"João was 28 years of age.”
CEO of TEF Cesar Silva added: “We extend our most sincere condolences to the family of João Carvalho’s and his teammates in Team Nobrega.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with them. We’d also like to thank all sports fans for their concern and support. We will give whatever support we can to Joao’s family.”
“We have been in contact with his family and they have requested that we all understand their need for privacy at this difficult time.”
Conor McGregor's MMA coach John Kavanagh has been reacting to the sad news on social media this afternoon:
