Austria mourns the loss of Biko Botowamungu: Last Olympic Stops died

Austria mourns the loss of Biko Botowamungu: Last Olympic Stops died

Biko Botowamungu, the last Olympic starter in boxing for Austria, died last Sunday at the age of 68. The death of the former boxer was confirmed by his environment and boxing associations. Botowamungu died of kidney failure and pulmonary embolism after making dementia in the previous year. His wife Nakale said on Facebook that she wishes him peace and expressing grief about the loss.

Born in 1957 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Botowamungu began his career in the struggle in the United States before moving to Austria in 1978. There he developed a passion for boxing, inspired by the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" between George Foreman and Muhammad Ali. In the 1980s he became a Austrian champion in heavyweight and super heavyweight. His remarkable career led him to the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, where he competed against the later world champion Riddick Bowe.

Career and successes

Botowamungu qualified for the Olympic Games with a great qualification, in which he initially had to accept a point defeat against Aziz Salihu, but then won against István Szikora and Peter Hrivňák. After his amateur career, he was professionally active and worked for the well -known promoter Don King. During this time he was also a sparring partner of the world -famous boxer Mike Tyson.

In addition to his sporting career, Botowamungu was also active as "Dr. Biko" in the wrestling and at times worked as a security at the UN. He experienced a religious turn in 1994, which led to a fundamental change in lifestyle. After his active career, he became a preacher of the Vienna Baptist community and tried to face the challenges of life with a newly shaped faith. He also received public attention in 2013 when he took part in the ORF show "Dancing Stars".

A sport full of risks

Botowamungus death throws a light on the health risks of boxing, which despite its popularity harbors numerous dangers. Studies show that the injury rate in professional boxes as well as acute and chronic health consequences are widespread. There are special risks for older boxers who have had a long career. These can suffer from neuropsychiatric complications, including memory disorders and depression.

Medical research has carefully examined the complications in boxing. Permanent cognitive impairments are common, and about 10-20 % of professional boxers suffer from chronic symptoms such as tremor and aggressiveness. The World Medical Association even calls for a ban on boxing due to significant health risks. This debate is all the more relevant if you look at the fate of athletes such as Botowamungu and discuss the associated challenges of sport.