Joe George Jr. falls in corner during bout against Atif Oberlton

DETROIT — In a concerning incident at Little Caesars Arena, boxer Joe George Jr. was taken from the ring on a stretcher after collapsing in his corner following the first round of his light heavyweight bout against Atif Oberlton on Sunday evening.

The fighters, who were featured on the undercard of the Claressa Shields vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn event, clashed heads during the initial round. After the round concluded, George fell off his stool while seated in his corner, as he was getting ready to receive guidance from his coaches.

George, a native of Houston, regained consciousness but was unable to proceed with the fight. Oberlton, hailing from Philadelphia, was declared the winner by TKO.

Oberlton (15-0) immediately showed concern for George after he regained awareness, before George was transported away from the ring on a stretcher.

“Just like, ‘I got love for you bro,’ It’s cool,” Oberlton remarked regarding his words to George. “I just wanted to make sure he was safe.”