Probe launched as boxer ‘Jack Spoiler’ Oyoko dies following a fight in Mumias

 Kenya’s boxing fraternity is in mourning following the death of 38-year-old boxer Jacob “Jack Spoiler” Oyoko, who collapsed during a professional bout at the Mumias Cultural Centre in Kakamega County on Saturday.

The tragic incident was confirmed by Reuben Ndolo, president of the Kenya Professional Boxing Commission, who said the Kisumu-based fighter passed away despite receiving urgent medical attention shortly after the bout.

The fight was part of an event organised by Rashid Echesa, attracting a large crowd to the venue.

“Emergency protocols were activated promptly, with ringside medics administering oxygen support and cardiopulmonary resuscitation before the boxer was rushed to hospital. However, efforts to revive him were unsuccessful,” Ndolo said.

He added that all relevant authorities—including the Kenya Police, Ministry of Sports, Sports Kenya, and the County Health Department—have been notified.

Preliminary accounts indicate Oyoko appeared unable to effectively defend himself in the closing stages of the bout, as his opponent, Julius Okuruchi, continued to press forward. The sequence has sparked debate within boxing circles over whether the referee should have intervened earlier.

Videos circulating on social media have intensified scrutiny, with fans and stakeholders questioning officiating decisions and overall fight management.

Ndolo described the incident as a tragic accident, drawing parallels with past cases such as Robert Wangila and Marc-Vivien Foé, both of whom died in the line of sport.

He confirmed that KPBC has established an independent review committee comprising medical experts, legal practitioners, and senior boxing officials to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The probe will examine key areas including pre-fight medical screening, weight management, hydration levels, ringside medical preparedness, and decisions made by match officials. A post-mortem examination has also been requested.

KPBC described Oyoko as a disciplined and dedicated athlete whose loss is deeply felt across the boxing community. The commission has pledged to support his family, including facilitating medical and funeral expenses.

The body also signalled plans to review and strengthen safety protocols, with a focus on stricter enforcement of medical checks and competition regulations to help prevent similar incidents.

Meanwhile, the Boxing Federation of Kenya, through Secretary General David Munuhe, conveyed condolences to Oyoko’s family and the wider boxing fraternity.

“It is sad to witness any boxer losing his life in the sport and even if he is not under our umbrella, it is quite unfortunate. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and the boxing community,” Munuhe said.