MMA Fighter Dies After Plymouth Fight

PLYMOUTH, MA — A 26-year-old mixed martial arts fighter died Tuesday after he was knocked out during a fight in Plymouth over the weekend, according to authorities. Rondel Clark, of Sutton, was pronounced dead Tuesday morning at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. A police investigation is underway.

Clark fought in the "Cage Titans XXXV" showcase Saturday at Plymouth Memorial Hall. (Subscribe to free daily newsletters and breaking news alerts from Plymouth Patch.)

"The match was stopped after approximately two minutes into the third round and ruled a technical knockout," Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz said in a statement. "Post-fight examination of Clark resulted in his being transported to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. Clark was then transferred to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, where he died earlier today."

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of Clark's death. State Police, Plymouth police, the Plymouth County District Attorney's office, and the Massachusetts State Athletic Commission are investigating the incident.

In the days leading up to the match, Clark wrote on his Facebook page that he was looking forward to competing.

"I couldn't have gotten to where I am today without all the incredible people in my life," Clark wrote. "That's why nothing fires me up more than looking out from the ring and seeing all your faces in the crowd ... I'm looking forward to stepping into the cage."

Photo: Rondel Clark. (Credit: WHDH-7News)