MMA fighter Isaac Johnson dies at 31: what we know about the cause of death

Isaac Johnson, a 31-year-old mixed martial arts competitor from Chicago, died after collapsing during a heavyweight Thai boxing bout at the Matador Fighter Challenge in Cicero, according to officials. The event, held Friday night at Cicero Stadium, was marketed as a high-intensity showcase for local fighters.

Near the end of Johnson’s fight, he went down unexpectedly, prompting immediate attention from on-site medical staff.

An ambulance was dispatched at 8:38 p.m., and Johnson was taken to Loyola University Medical Center. He was pronounced dead just after midnight, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, reported by local NBC which has scheduled an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death. Cicero police have opened a death investigation.

Promoter Joe Goytia expressed shock and grief in a statement posted on social media, calling the loss “a post I hoped to never make.” He added that more information would be shared once the medical report is completed and extended condolences to Johnson’s family, friends and teammates.

Authorities have not yet commented on whether the injury resulted from a specific strike or medical episode, and further details are expected in the coming days.

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