South Korean boxer Choi Yo-sam has fallen into a coma after defending his championship in the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) Intercontinental flyweight title.

The 33-year-old won the match over challenger Heri Amal from Indonesia but collapsed shortly before the end of the bout after taking a series of left and right hooks.

The champion was able to stand during the announcement of his win, but fell into a coma immediately after. He has received brain surgery but has yet to regain consciousness.

The Intercontinental title is one rank under the World title, referring to the Asian champion in this case.