Newz Forum: BOXING: Boxer Louis Villalta in a Coma

Associated Press - February 29, 2004

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. (AP) - Boxer Louis Villalta was in a coma Sunday, one day after collapsing following a 12-round loss, his manager said.

The 35-year-old Villalta was in critical condition at North Broward Regional Medical Center, and his wife was traveling from Peru to Florida to be with him, manager Anthony Toresco said.

The hospital declined to comment on the condition of Villalta, a native of Peru who lives in Hillsborough, N.J.

The 135-pound Villalta (29-6-1) collapsed just after losing a unanimous decision and his regional lightweight title to Ricky Quiles on Saturday night.

Villalta dominated the fight early, scoring a knock down in the first round. However, in the final two rounds, Quiles hit Villalta - who was never knocked down - with unanswered combinations to the head.

The incident delayed the main event featuring Ray Mercer, the 1988 Olympic gold medalist. Mercer's bout was suspended for 30 minutes after the first round while emergency personnel and ringside physicians tended to Villalta, who was unconscious when he was brought to the hospital.

After the delay, Mercer (33-5-1) knocked out Steve Pannell (33-8) in the third round.

I can't say i have really heard of him,but that is not good.What with the fighter dying a little while ago thats all boxing needs right now..