(MAY 3) It is with heavy hearts that the Athletes Voice Committee, a sub-committee of the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports, extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and teammates of Ardi Ndembo, a talented fighter whose life was tragically cut short.

The allegation that Ardi Ndembo was knocked unconscious in training shortly before his fatal bout deeply troubles and concerns us. If true, it is our belief that this death was preventable if recognized post-knockout protocols were practiced.

We urge Florida state officials to conduct a full and transparent regulatory investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ardi Ndembo's death. It is crucial that every aspect of this incident is thoroughly examined to determine how similar tragedies can be avoided in the future.

The findings of this investigation should lead to clear guidance for all involved in combat sports, including but not limited to fighters, trainers, officials, medical personnel, gym personnel, cut persons, managers, promoters, commissions and sanctioning bodies.

We emphasize the importance of following the guidelines set forth by the Association of Ringside Physicians, particularly regarding post-knockout protocols and concussion management. This is crucial for the safety and well-being of athletes.

Our thoughts are with Ardi Ndembo's loved ones during this difficult time. May his memory serve as a reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures in combat sports.

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About The Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC):

The Association of Boxing Commissions is a North American not for profit governmental entity professional boxing and Mixed Martial Arts organization that provides a framework for undertaking boxing and MMA bouts and record keeping. It is made up of members from state and tribal athletic commissions from the United States and Canada and beyond.

The organization was formed in the 1980s when a number of executive directors of various boxing commissions met to discuss how boxing was handled in their jurisdictions. The Professional Boxing Safety Act then endorsed the ABC as the primary organization to help promote the elements of the Act.
The goals of the ABC are to:

# Promote uniform health and safety standards in boxing and MMA
# Provide accurate records for boxers and mixed martial artists
# Increase communication between organizations
# Publish medical and training information and education for all boxing and MMA related professionals
# Encourage adherence to, and enforcement of, applicable federal laws by each member of the ABC
# Select and retain record keeping source for suspension and records

About the Athletes Voice Committee (AVC):

The purpose of this committee is to build a bridge between fighters and regulators and to provide fighters a meaningful opportunity to have a voice in their sport. A two-way platform for fighters to voice their concerns to regulators and equally an opportunity for regulators to create educational opportunities for fighters.

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