Tanzanian professional boxer Hassan Mgaya passed away on December 30, 2024, after being transferred from Mwananyamala Hospital to Muhimbili National Hospital.
Mgaya’s death followed an incident on Saturday, December 27, 2024, when he was knocked out by Paul Elias in a lightweight bout at Dunia Ndogo Hall in Tandale, Dar es Salaam.
Nsajigwa Mwangamilo, Acting Secretary General of the Tanzania Professional Boxing Regulatory Commission (TPBRC), confirmed that Mgaya’s burial would take place on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Vingunguti, Dar es Salaam.
He extended condolences to Mgaya’s family and the boxing community in the country, adding that the event was organized by a registered promoter who followed all regulations.
Cosmas Cheka, Treasurer of the Boxers’ Association, explained that Mgaya’s condition worsened on December 28, 2024, leading to his transfer to Muhimbili, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Earlier, he had been taken to Palestina Hospital in Sinza before being moved to Mwananyamala Hospital.
It is believed that Mgaya’s critical condition, which led to his death, resulted from multiple head injuries sustained during the fifth round of the match.
The boxer collapsed and bit his tongue during the incident, causing it to sink into his throat.
After the incident, first aid was administered, and he initially appeared to recover. However, his condition deteriorated this morning, and he was rushed to the hospital.
The late Mgaya becomes the second boxer in the country to pass away recently following a match.
