Isis Sio, the 19-year-old junior flyweight who was knocked out Saturday and put into a medically induced coma, has awoken and is speaking, two officials briefed on the matter told BoxingScene on Monday.
Sio was knocked out by a combination of head shots from unbeaten Jocelyn Camarillo at the National Orange Show events center in San Bernardino, California.
She was immediately tended to by emergency personnel, who raced her convulsing body out of the venue to the respected Loma Linda University Health medical center.
There, she was subjected to further tests while her progress was tracked.
Sio is now also breathing on her own and has been removed from a ventilator that was supporting her.
On Monday, Sio's family released a statement regarding her condition and her acceptance of the Camarillo fight so soon after her previous fight, also a knockout defeat:
"Isis is a passionate, disciplined, and well-prepared athlete who carefully evaluates each opportunity placed before her.
"Her decision to compete on Saturday, March 21, against Jocelyn Camarillo was not made lightly, but rather thoughtfully reviewed and analyzed prior to acceptance.
"In reference to her previous bout on January 30 against Perla Bazaldua, the result was not due to a head-strike knockout.
"Instead, it was caused by a liver shot.
"As is well understood in boxing, a direct blow to the liver can trigger an involuntary physiological response (vasovagal syncope). Because the liver is highly vascularized and rich in nerve supply, such an impact can stimulate the vagus nerve – leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure and heartrate.
"This may result in temporary paralysis, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
"Please note, she was on a 45-day suspension and cleared before she accepted the fight with Jocelyn Camarillo.
"At this time, Isis remains in ICU, but she is off the ventilator and we are hopeful for her progression.
"We are awaiting further updates from her medical team.
"She is currently under the care of three specialized medical divisions who are closely monitoring her condition.
"We sincerely appreciate the continued support, thoughts, and prayers during this time."
BoxingScene will have more information on Sio as it develops.
