Tim Hague has passed away at the age of 34. Hague was left critically injured after receiving a brutal knockout blow during a boxing match in Canada on Friday. After being evaluated at the arena, he was rushed to a local hospital to relieve pressure from brain bleeding.
Hague’s passing is a somber reminder of the dangers that come along with combat sports. It’s important that remember these dangers, especially when introducing such sports to youth. The fact that Tim Hague was knocked out four times in MMA and two times in boxing, over the last twenty two months should also be a wake-up call to regulatory bodies. He never should have been in a ring on Friday against a known heavy hitter. Perhaps communication between promoters and sanctioning officials should be increased. There’s something to be said about self regulation as well, but most of these guys are just out there trying to feed their families.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Tim Hague and family.
ESPN: “Former UFC heavyweight Tim Hague died at the age of 34 on Sunday, following a knockout loss in a boxing match Friday.
“It is with incredible sadness, sorrow and heartbreak to report that Tim has passed away today,” his family said in a statement. “He was surrounded by family, listening to his favorite songs. We will miss him with so greatly. We ask for privacy during this difficult time.”
Fighting out of Alberta, Canada, Hague made five appearances in the UFC between 2009 and 2011. He enjoyed a very successful debut in 2009, submitting Pat Barry via guillotine choke at UFC 98. He went on to lose his next four bouts inside the Octagon, however.
Hague (21-13) suffered eight career knockouts in MMA, including four within the past 22 months. Hague’s professional boxing record was 1-3, with two knockout losses.”