VIDEO: Teen Dies from Head Strike in MMA Competition in Russia

A 16-year-old participant has died from a head strike during an MMA competition, as reported by Mash.

The tragedy occurred today, June 4, at the sports complex named after Russian hero Sergey Solnechnikov, during an open cup for mixed martial arts.

The mayor of Belogorsk, Stanislav Melyukov, stated that the tournament was organized in accordance with existing regulations. However, there is one caveat: participants under the age of 17 are required to wear boxing helmets in the ring.

It remains unclear why, prior to the competition, the head referee allowed the teenager to fight without the helmet.

The Investigative Committee is looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident.