The sports world is mourning the sudden loss of professional boxer Josh Frederiksen, who passed away at just 36 years old following a skydiving accident in Australia.
According to the Daily Mail, Frederiksen was taking part in a sport skydiving jump at Skydive Ramblers Toogoolawah when the tragedy unfolded. The Australian Parachute Federation reported that the jump appeared completely normal until Frederiksen hit turbulence close to the ground.
He was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital immediately after the crash on Wednesday, but sadly succumbed to critical injuries to his chest, pelvis, and abdomen by Thursday.
As news spread, tributes poured in from friends, fans, and the boxing community. One close friend wrote on social media, “We lost the most incredible human being I’ve ever met. The world just got a little colder and darker.” Another admirer added, “I know your heart and soul are with God now. And I guess it’s your turn to look after me, but probably in the form of my forever guardian angel.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Frederiksen’s loved ones, and it has already raised more than $26,000 this week. The fundraiser’s message captures the profound loss: “There are people you meet in life who become such a big part of it that you simply cannot imagine a world without them. And then, in the most unimaginable way, you’re forced to face exactly that. We weren’t ready to lose Josh. We weren’t ready for the goodbyes, for the heartbreak, or for the reality that there are now memories we will never get the chance to make with him.”
Frederiksen’s death echoes other recent tragedies in the sports world, such as the college baseball player killed by a train and the NC State legend who died at 39. It also brings to mind the Ironman athlete whose death was ruled an accidental drowning.
Our thoughts are with Frederiksen’s friends and family during this incredibly difficult time.
