Boxer Kain Parsons who was critically injured while fighting in a Christchurch charity match has died.
Mr Parsons, 37, was knocked unconscious during the fight at the OneStaff Fight for Christchurch at Horncastle Arena on Saturday night.
A spectator told Newshub Mr Parsons was knocked out and fell unconscious after hitting his head on canvas. He immediately went into a violent seizure, before medical professionals swarmed the ring.
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Police confirmed Mr Parsons had passed away in hospital after succumbing to his injuries.
Inspector Darryl Sweeney said police are liasing with event organisers and officials as they determine what happened.
A builder by trade, Mr Parsons was fighting to raise money for Conductive Education, a charity that supports children with developmental delays and disorders.
"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," a statement from his family reads.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
The family thanked the team at Christchurch Hospital's ICU ward and all the medical professionals who had come to Mr Parsons' aid.
Tributes have flown online, Conductive Education saying they are were "devastated" to hear of his passing.
"Over the last four months we have got to know Kain through his efforts in supporting our organisation and his grgeous smile and big heart will be remembered by us always," a Facebook post read.
Event operator Callam Mitchell extended his sympathies to Mr Parsons' family.
"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.
"This morning I've spoken with his training coach Brad, Kain's opponent and his coach as well, and they're completely traumatised."
New Zealand Professional Boxing Association president Pat Leonard said "everyone is in shock" by the news of his passing.
"We are very, very sorry to hear about it and we send our utmost condolences to Kain's family.
"We've been in close contact with the promoter since Sunday and can find no fault with the processes that Fight for Christchurch follows."
Fighters have the option of wearing protective headgear - but on this occasion, Mr Parsons went without.
The incident has prompted calls for changes in the boxing community.
Legendary boxing referee Lance Revill previously told Newshub the match should have been stopped earlier.
"The referees are there to protect the score and protect the fighters. He should have called it off."
Promoters of the event are running a detailed review into the tragic situation.
A Givealittle page has been set up to support his family and his death has been referred to the Coroner.
Newshub.
