PIO bodybuilder dies after first kick-boxing bout

Subramanian suffers ‘fatal head injuries’ during a match with YouTube figure Steven Lim

A 32-year-old Indian-origin bodybuilder in Singapore died, an hour after he stepped into the ring for his first-ever Thai kickboxing match.

Pradip Subramanian had taken on YouTube personality Steven Lim, 42, in the “celebrity” Muay Thai match at Marina Bay Sands for the inaugural event of the Asian Fighting Championship last evening.

Mr Subramanian, president of the World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation (WBPF) Singapore, had replaced former Singapore Idol runner-up and singer Sylvester Sim, who pulled out of the match citing insurance issues.

The match was over in five minutes after the referee noticed Mr Subramanian’s nose bleeding. He then called off the fight and declared Mr Lim the winner.

Mr Subramanian took a few blows on his head but

was still standing after the match ended. Later, he appeared to be losing consciousness while in a corner, and had to be helped out of the ring, reported the Straits Times.

“In the first round, it seemed like Pradip was winning. But in the second round, Steven punched him a few times,” said a backstage staff member

who did not want to be named.

“Initially I thought it was just a concussion … plus there was no sign of a heart attack. He was then sent to hospital via the ambulance. It was much later that I heard the news that he died.”

Mr Lim paid tribute to Mr Subramanian on Facebook, saying: “Rest in Peace, my really truly respected fearless warrior and fighter.”

Official details about Mr Subramanian’s death were awaited.

Event organisers Axseed Events and Muse Fitness Club, Singapore, said, “We are deeply saddened to share the news that Mr Subramanian, exhibition match-up fighter and president of the World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation of Singapore has passed away at the Singapore General Hospital (SGH) on September 23.”

“We are in close contact with the medical staff at the hospital to ascertain the cause of death,” they added.

Pradip Subramanian (left) had replaced singer Sylvester Sim, who pulled out of the match citing insurance issues The match was over in five minutes after referee noticed Subramanian’s nose bleeding profusely Subramanian took few blows on his head but...