Police: Kick Boxer’s Death Not Caused By Ring Injuries Competitor Had Heart Problems

Heart problems, not injuries sustained in the ring, caused the death of a 25-year-old kick boxer who collapsed in competition Saturday, a police official said Tuesday.

Police Chief James Quist said that, although toxicology reports are pending, the preliminary autopsy report blames “cardiac problems” for the death of Matthew Boehlens of Hoffman Estates.

Boehlens and the other boxers were required to show a doctor’s letter stating they were fit for competition and to take a blood pressure check before Saturday’s fights, said Rocky Troutman, a promoter.