Mixed Martial Arts Contestant Dies

AUSTIN, December 3, 2007 – On October 20, 2007 Sammy Vasquez was hurt during the third round of a mixed martial arts contest against opponent Vince Libardi. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) was saddened to learn that Sammy Vasquez passed away this weekend.

"Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of Sammy Vasquez during this very difficult time. Texas and the Mixed Martial Arts community have lost a true fighter,” said Bill Kuntz, TDLR’s Executive Director.

“TDLR takes its responsibility to license and regulate mixed martial arts events very seriously,” Kuntz continued. “It is at a tragic time like this that we are reminded of the seriousness of our duties.”

Immediately following the October 20 match in Houston, TDLR initiated an evaluation of the entire event, including the pre-fight requirements, the activity during the bout as well as the response of the emergency medical personnel after the injury. The evaluation includes a comprehensive review of the video recording of the match between Mr. Vasquez and Mr. Libardi. It also includes interviews with key ringside personnel, including TDLR staff, the referee, the physician and emergency medical technicians.

The medical procedures in place for this and all regulated events include a pre-fight physical examination, the on-site presence of a physician and of emergency medical technicians. Further safety regulations include the inspection of the ring by the referee prior to an event and the creation of a clear access route for use by physicians and emergency personnel as well as injured participants.

To date, the evaluation shows that this event was conducted in compliance with all procedures. “From the pre-fight review conducted by the referee to the actions of the physician on duty and the emergency medical technicians, everyone involved with the October 20 card conducted themselves accordingly and adhered to all procedures,” said Kuntz.

“We want to commend the ringside officials who presided over this event for their professionalism and quick actions. The referee immediately stopped the fight when he saw that Sammy was hurt. The doctors and paramedics worked quickly to give Sammy the medical attention he needed and to get him to the hospital,” Kuntz concluded.

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