Updated at 3.30pm

A PORTUGUESE FIGHTER who took part in an MMA event at the National Stadium in Dublin on Saturday was taken to hospital after the bout with his team reporting he was “very ill”.

Joao Carvalho was defeated by Irish fighter Charlie Ward at the Total Extreme Fighting (TEF) event on Saturday night, with the referee stopping the welterweight fight in the third round.

Carvalho was treated in the ring but his gym say his condition deteriorated 20 minutes after the end of the contest when he “fell very ill and was rushed to hospital.”

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His coach, Brazilian fighter Vitor Nobrega, is still believed to be at his beside at Beaumont Hospital where the Irish Daily Star reports Carvalho underwent emergency surgery and is in a critical condition.

Ward turned pro in 2015 and is 2-1 in his professional MMA career and is coached by John Kavanagh at SBG in Dublin.

In a statement issued to their website this morning, Cesar Silva, CEO of TEF said:

Our thoughts are with Joao Carvalho, his family and Team Nobrega. Joao’s welfare is our primary focus at this moment in time but we will update you on Joao’s condition as it becomes clearer. If you could respect Joao Carvalho and Team Nobrega’s privacy at this time, it would be greatly appreciated.”

“The promotion and fighters followed best regulatory practices. We had also three doctors and paramedic staff present on the night.

“Their presence ensured that the seriousness of Joao’s condition was recognized and swift action taken and we are thankful for their help.

“Serious injuries like this are rare worldwide in MMA but it is important that every possible precaution is taken to ensure every competitor’s welfare.”

Originally published at 11am.