A BOXER tragically died of natural causes after his first pro fight – as his heartbroken family and friends finally laid him to rest.
Middleweight debutant Sherif Lawal lost consciousness after being struck in the temple by Portuguese opponent Malam Varela.
The ref started the knockout count before immediately calling time after realising the extent of his condition at Harrow Leisure Centre in London.
Medics worked to save Sherif, 29, of Islington, on the canvas and at a nearby hospital but he was pronounced dead following the fight on May 12.
But Haringey Borough Council confirmed to The Sun that no inquest will be held as it was “found to be a natural death”.
A prolonged autopsy process meant more than 200 loved ones had to wait until last Wednesday for a funeral where his boxing gloves were laid on his coffin.
Sherif’s three sisters read a tribute written by his mum, Misitua Bisi Lawal, which described him as a “tower of strength and inspiration”.
They revealed how the trainee mental health nurse, who fought at St Pancras Amateur Boxing Club, got into the sport after being stabbed aged 17.
Coach CJ Hussein described him as a “role model” and “a simply exceptional kid” with “a great smile”.
