The Australian boxing scene is in shock after local fighter Dwight Ritchie died in a freak training accident while sparring Michael Zerefa.

The 27-year-old Ritchie collapsed after a session with Zerafa, who is preparing for his re-match with Jeff Horn after winning the Battle of Bendigo, in Melbourne on Saturday.

The Daily Telegraph broke the news and said Ritchie took a body shot, walked back to his corner and collapsed. He could not be revived.

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Ritchie was previously an Australian middleweight champion and hit the headlines when he fought Tim Tszyu in August, losing a decision that was only his second loss in a 21-fight career.

Ritchie’s promoter Jake Ellis confirmed the tragic news on Facebook, writing: “It is with great sadness and shock to announce that the fighting cowboy Dwight Ritchie sadly passed away today doing what he loved.

“As Dwight’s promoter and friend it’s unbearable to accept the tragic news that’s just surfaced.

“Dwight will always be remembered by the boxing fraternity as one of the brightest talents in Australia who’s fighting style embodied exactly how he lived.

“RIP Cowboy you’ll be forever missed.”

Boxing commentator Ben Damon also took to Twitter to offer his condolences.

Confirming the heartbreaking news that Australian boxer Dwight Ritchie has today passed away after a freak training accident. He was 27. RIP Cowboy #DwightRitchie 💔 — Ben Damon (@ben_damon) November 9, 2019

He wrote: “Confirming the heartbreaking news that Australian boxer Dwight Ritchie has today passed away after a freak training accident. He was 27. RIP Cowboy.”