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Chicago Fighter Isaac Johnson, 31, Dies After Collapsing Late in Matador Bout

Authorities have not yet determined a cause of death as medical and law-enforcement reviews proceed.

Overview

  • Johnson collapsed near the end of his bout at Cicero Stadium on Nov. 21 and received on‑site care before paramedics transported him at 8:38 p.m. to Loyola University Medical Center.
  • He was pronounced dead at 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 22, and the Cook County Medical Examiner has scheduled an autopsy to establish the cause and manner of death.
  • Cicero police have opened a death investigation, and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations is reported to be examining the incident.
  • The fight was promoted as a heavyweight Thai boxing match at the Matador Fighter Challenge; the promoter says Johnson passed the required pre‑fight physical and that standard protective gear was used.
  • Reports conflict on Johnson’s opponent, with some outlets naming Mario Aleksandrovski while event materials listed Corey Newell, and officials have not clarified that detail.