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Former Ore. boxer dies after fight in S. California

06:58 AM PDT on Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES -- A boxer whose roots were in Southern Oregon died a day after collapsing at the end of a six-round match, authorities said Monday.

Jackson K. Bussell, 28, of Reno, was admitted to a hospital Thursday in grave condition after a fight in Calabasas sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission.

Bussell collapsed in the ring immediately after the bout, which ended in a draw with Javier Garcia.

Bussell died Friday afternoon, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Police Department, which was investigating.

Bussell was a member of the Klamath Tribes of Southern Oregon and fought about 60 amateur bouts before leaving a year ago to turn professional, said his former trainer, Ed Clarke.

Clarke, who operates a boxing and fitness club in Klamath Falls, said Bussell won championships including some in American Indian and regional Golden Gloves events, boxing in lightweight classes.

"He was the best Native American in the nation in his weight, probably," Clarke said. "He was a very good, aggressive, determined fighter."

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