Chicago MMA Fighter Dies After Competition in Cicero
A 31-year-old mixed martial arts fighter, Isaac Johnson, has died after collapsing during his bout at a suburban Chicago event on Friday night.
Key Details
- Isaac Johnson collapsed toward the end of his fight at Cicero Stadium
- The incident occurred during the Matador Fighter Challenge event
- He was pronounced dead at Loyola University Medical Center
- Cause of death remains under investigation
Timeline of Events
Johnson was competing in a heavyweight Thai boxing matchup at the Matador Fighter Challenge hosted at Cicero Stadium, 1909 S. Laramie Ave. According to officials, he collapsed during the final moments of his fight.
Emergency services were called at 8:38 p.m. and transported Johnson to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood. He was pronounced dead shortly after midnight.
Ongoing Investigation
Cicero police have launched a death investigation. An autopsy conducted on Saturday could not determine Johnson’s cause or manner of death, with results pending further investigation.
The event was described on its website as featuring “high-stakes, high-intensity matches.” Johnson, a Chicago resident, was among the fighters scheduled for the night.
Promoter’s Response
“I don’t have the words to express how I feel right now,” promoter Joe Goytia said in a social media post. “All I can say is my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and teammates. We will know more as the medical report is released.”
