New Brunswick boxer remains in induced coma after post-bout brain hemorrhage

A New Brunswick boxer remains in an induced coma a week-and-a-half after suffering a brain hemorrhage in the hours following a Fredericton bout.

Thirty-eight-year-old David Whittom is listed in stable condition at Saint John Regional Hospital. Whittom – who was born in Saint Quentin, N.B. – was once a promising supermiddleweight who fought world title contenders.

Saskatoon fighter Gary Kopas beat him by technical knockout with just 37 seconds left in the 10-round bout on May 27. They were competing for the Canadian Professional Boxing Council cruiserweight championship.

Whittom only became ill hours later and taken to hospital in Fredericton and later to Saint John, where he underwent surgery the next day.

Whittom’s stepbrother, Eric Moffatt, has released a family statement acknowledging the support the family has received.

“Our family has been impressed and humbled by the support of the boxing community and the community at large for the thoughts and prayers they have sent to help David’s recovery. The family would also like to thank the medical team in Fredericton, but mostly in Saint John for their professionalism and their warm, caring approach during David’s stay,” he wrote. Our family will not make any more announcements until further notice and appreciate going through this tough circumstance in private.”

Whittom has lost 19 of his last 21 bouts. He was in his first fight in 14 months.

He battled alcohol and drug abuse earlier in his career and twice considered retirement, only to stay in the ring despite the defeats.