Kiwi boxer Mea Motu has been admitted to hospital, diagnosed with pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis, days after returning home from losing her world title unification bout in the UK last week.
Motu has been diagnosed with pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis less than a week after suffering her first loss as a professional boxer in her clash with Ellie Scotney, also losing her IBO Super Bantamweight world title.
Motu's gym Peach Boxing said in a statement the 35-year-old, "had been dealing with a persistent cough" in the build up to the bout but was "well-prepared".
"Under the guidance of her doctor, she travelled with inhalers, antihistamines, and a course of antibiotics as a precaution. She was also cleared by medical professionals before stepping into the ring.
"Despite the additional challenges of making weight and managing her respiratory health, Mea was determined to go through with the fight."
Arriving back in New Zealand, Motu headed to her hometown of Pukepoto in Northland to be with family and attend a cousin's wedding but had swollen legs following her long-haul flights home.
A visit to the local chemist led to Motu being referred and diagnosed, and she was now receiving treatment.
In a short statement, Motu said she still felt capable of competing in Nottingham on January 25.
“I felt ready to fight. We had come too far — there was no way I was pulling out,” Motu said.
Motu has a history of severe asthma and respiratory issues and Peach Boxing believed the cold climate in Nottingham contributed to her conditions, but was not using it as an excuse for the result, with Motu losing via unanimous decision after 10 rounds with Scotney.
"I'm not making excuses, I take nothing away from Scotney — she was brilliant," head coach Isaac Peach said.
"It’s just crazy the level that Mea is able to operate at with such obstacles in her way. I was very worried as soon as I heard she was unwell back here, and I’m so relieved she is in the right place getting the treatment she needs. She is an absolute warrior."
Peach Boxing added Motu was in "good spirits" for her recovery.
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