Filipino boxer, Emelito “Job” Alim Jr. dies after a successful title defense

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In a post written by Paul John Rivera of Filipino Boxing Journal (FBJ), “Emelito “Job” Alim Jr. reportedly collapsed after being declared as the winner to retain his Mindanao Professional Boxing Association featherweight title via decision against Ahl Grumo in their 10-round title bout.”

I feel really sad after I read this post because this is the second time in this year alone. First was Karlo Maguinto, an undefeated boxer, who died six days after he collapsed in the ring during his fight against Mark Joseph Costa.

Maguinto’s fate opted me to write an article regarding insurance to boxers posted in FBJ. Actually I don’t have any idea if boxers do have insurance every fight in their contracts. I try to research boxing contract templates but I don’t see part of a contract that stated insurance clause.

One thing I wanted to do when I get back to Philippines for a vacation is to ask a boxing promoter about this subject.

I believe it is right that when a boxer dies in the ring should have insurance or assurance to at least their families will receive a stipulated amount maybe from the promoter of the fight, from the manager, or from the Games and Amusement Board (GAB) who governs professional boxing.

  

Yes, it is accepted that boxing is a dangerous sport, similar to any other combat sports, but it is not an excuse to say that it is normal for possibility of death and then let it go?

It is sad to think that both cases happened in the national level. I mean, it happen to our local boxers who fight locally and earn meager amount.

In fact both Karlo and Emelito were just started their career and were very young. The sport that they believe that will alleviate them from poverty is the one that take their lives.

Most of our boxers in the Philippines came from the families somewhere in or below the poverty line. Every Filipino boxer’s are hopeful that someday they may reach the status of Rep. Manny Pacquiao. 

I hope this issue will be taken care of. If there is no law regarding it, at least it will be brought up into open and our lawmakers should start looking into it.