Story highlights Carvalho felt unwell 20 minutes after fight

He died after 48 hours in intensive care

Statement pledges support for family

(CNN) Fighter Joao Carvalho has died in hospital after suffering head injuries during a mixed martial arts (MMA) bout in Dublin, Ireland.

The 28-year-old complained of feeling unwell after Saturday's fight against Irishman Charlie Ward was stopped by the referee in the third round.

The Portuguese welterweight, who fought for Team Nobrega, was taken to hospital and had emergency brain surgery that night but died on Monday evening after 48 hours in intensive care.

"We extend our most sincere condolences to the family of Joao Carvalho, and to his teammates in Team Nobrega," TEF chief executive Cesar Silva said.

Read More