Young boxer Jeanette Zacarias Zapata passes away after severe head trauma
It’s with great sadness that 3kingsboxing reports that welterweight boxer Jeanette Zacarias Zapata (2-4, 0 KO) has passed away. Following several calamitous days in the hospital, the 18-year-old Mexican fighter succumbed to the injuries that she sustained in her August 28 dustup with Marie Pier Houle (4-0-1, 2 KO’s). After being caught in the corner in the final seconds of the fourth round, Zapata absorbed several heavy shots to the head that froze her on her feet. Despite never going to the canvas, when the bell sounded, Zapata lingered in the corner unresponsive, at which point referee Albert Paludo Jr called a halt to the contest.
The events escalated very quickly at the conclusion to the bout. Within 30 seconds of the fight stoppage, Zapata initially slumped over and then collapsed in the ring and began convulsing. At that point, she was rushed to the hospital. Over the next several days, her condition only worsened until she ultimately passed away. It’s always a tragedy when fighters lose their lives pursuing their passion for boxing. However, Zapata’s extreme youth makes this instance that much more acutely painful.
DAYS OF REMORSE
As can only be expected Houle, 31, is devastated over this deadly turn of events. The day after the ultimately fatal prizefight, the Canadian fighter released the following statement:
“Yesterday’s events really upset me. Boxing carries a lot of risks and dangers. This is our job, our passion. Never, forever, intention to seriously hurt an opponent is part of my plans.”
“My most sincere thoughts are with my opponent Jeannette Zacarias Zapata and her family. I wish with all my heart that she gets well.”
Then, after hearing of Zapata’s passing, Houle said:
“Following the announcement of the terrible news of the death of Jeanette Zacarias Zapata, I am devastated. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and spouse, Jovanni Martinez. Thank you for respecting my desire not to comment more. The sad news of the departure of a great athlete like Jeanette Zacarias Zapata leaves me sad and devastated. I offer my sincere and deep condolences to her family and husband Jovanni Martinez. May God enlighten your soul and receive it in his glory.”
Likewise, 3kingsboxing would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Jeanette Zacarias Zapata in this dark and trying ordeal. We also wish the best for Marie Houle who is no doubt submerged in her own feelings of guilt and anguish.
By: Bakari Simpson
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