Teenage Boxer Sio Isis Wakes Up From Coma

Isis Sio, the junior flyweight, has woken up from her medically induced coma.

The 19-year-old Sio is now speaking and breathing on her own after being successfully weaned off a ventilator. She remains under close observation in the Intensive Care Unit. It follows after Sio was caught in a corner by the undefeated Jocelyn Camarillo, getting knocked out in 78-seconds after a barrage of punches. Sio began convulsing in the ring, prompting an immediate response from ringside physicians and paramedics. 

Sio was taken to hospital. In the aftermath, the incident sparked a heated debate regarding fighter safety and medical suspensions. Sio’s family released a detailed statement to clarify the timeline leading up to the fight. Sio had completed her mandatory 45-day medical suspension imposed by the California State Athletic Commission and was fully cleared by doctors before entering training camp for the Camarillo bout. This was after she had been knocked out by Perla Bazaldua was the result of a liver shot in January.

Sio’s Family

"Isis is a passionate, disciplined, and well-prepared athlete who carefully evaluates each opportunity placed before her. Her decision to compete on Saturday, March 21, against Jocelyn Camarillo was not made lightly, but rather thoughtfully reviewed and analyzed prior to acceptance. In reference to her previous bout on January 30 against Perla Bazaldua, the result was not due to a head-strike knockout. Instead, it was caused by a liver shot.

"As is well understood in boxing, a direct blow to the liver can trigger an involuntary physiological response (vasovagal syncope). Because the liver is highly vascularized and rich in nerve supply, such an impact can stimulate the vagus nerve – leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure and heartrate. This may result in temporary paralysis, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

"Please note, she was on a 45-day suspension and cleared before she accepted the fight with Jocelyn Camarillo. At this time, Isis remains in ICU, but she is off the ventilator and we are hopeful for her progression. We are awaiting further updates from her medical team. She is currently under the care of three specialized medical divisions who are closely monitoring her condition. We sincerely appreciate the continued support, thoughts, and prayers during this time," family statement 

Find all the latest boxing news and MMA breaking updates on boxingnews.com.