A competitor at an event at a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competition died after suffering a “medical emergency” in Chicago. The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation confirmed in a social media post on Wednesday.
News of the unfortunate happening occurred via a Reddit poster as well as TP Grant
A portion of the post from the IBJJF reads:
“The medical emergency occurred in teh spectator area shortly after thee athlete had completed their match. IBJJF staff, along with trained medical personnel and other qualified first responders acted immediately, utilizing all available life-saving techniques, equipment and medical protocols in an effort to assist. The athlete was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Despite continued urgent and extensive efforts by medical personnel, we were later sadly informed that the athlete had passed away.”
There was a Reddit post entitled, “IBJJF needs a better trained medical staff.”
From the post on Reddit which seems like the poster was present or knew someone that was there:
“What’s even more painful is how unprepared the event was to handle a true medical emergency. From what many witnessed, the medical response was slow and uncoordinated. There was no designated medical tent, no clearly visible rapid response team, and the staff onsite didn’t appear to be equipped with updated emergency SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) or training for this kind of life-or-death situation.”
It’s an unfortunate incident but something that occurs. Ironman had at least two deaths in 2024.
One in Eugene, Oregon at a Half-Ironman distance on a course that is relatively easy for experienced athletes. But, the individual had a medical emergency while in the water and passed away later.
Another died this past December in Indian Wells at another Ironman-sponsored Half-Ironman.
The perils of sports are abound but the Reddit post is concerning due to the lack of medical protocols in place. While no one expects a death at an event, there should have been paramedics on sight to ensure things like this do not happen. Moreover, there will be issues regarding whether the promoters were in compliance with the venue because there are always safety measures that must be present (e.g., trained paramedics at the event at all times) or else they would be in violation of their license to operate. This may be an issue if the estate of the individual sues IBJJF and
Leave a Reply