Boxer dies after charity fight

A boxer has died four days after he was knocked out at a charity boxing event.

Kain Parsons, 37, died in Christchurch Hospital yesterday.

Parsons, a former builder-turned-project-manager for Versatile Garages, was knocked unconscious during a fight against former Canterbury and Tasman Makos half-back Steve Alfeld at Fight for Christchurch on Saturday.

According to witnesses, he was stunned twice by punches, prompting the referee giving him two eight standing counts in the first round to check if he was OK to continue, before being knocked out in the second round.

Parsons was not wearing headgear, which was optional. The policy is in line with New Zealand Professional Boxing Association (NZPBA). A review is under way into the fight.

A statement released by police on behalf of Parsons’ family said the outpouring of support from family, friends and the public had been ‘‘humbling and very much appreciated’’.

They thanked the ‘‘amazing’’ team at Christchurch Hospital’s intensive care unit, the paramedics at the event, and the medical professionals who left their tables to go to Parsons’ aid.

‘‘Kain gave his life in the pursuit of raising money for those less fortunate and his enormous heart, selfless attitude and gentle giant nature will leave a void in the lives of so many,’’ the statement said.

‘‘Kain is survived by his wife and three beautiful children who will miss their family man more than words can express.’’

Inspector Darryl Sweeney said police were liaising with the event’s organisers and officials as they investigated what happened.

The death will be referred to the coroner.

Event operator Callam Mitchell said in a statement he and his team were devastated. ‘‘On behalf of the entire Fight for Christchurch community, we extend our sincere condolences to Kain’s family, friends and workmates. Our thoughts are naturally also with Kain’s opponent during this incredibly difficult time.

He had spoken to Parsons’ coach, Alfed and Alfled’s coach and they were ‘‘completely traumatised’’.

‘‘We have already reached out to police, providing our full co-operation into their investigation of what happened.’’

‘‘On behalf of the entire Fight for Christchurch community, we extend our sincere condolences to Kain’s family, friends and workmates.’’

Callam Mitchell, Fight for Christchurch