Isis Sio told World Boxing News she is grateful to be alive after making a remarkable recovery from the coma she was placed in following her recent fight.
In her first comments since leaving hospital, the 19-year-old from Dickinson, North Dakota, revealed to WBN exclusively she is improving every day after being discharged from Loma Linda University Medical Center earlier this week while spending time recovering in California.
Sio was hospitalized following a first-round knockout defeat last Saturday night.
The young fighter said the experience has been emotional for both her and her family and believes the overwhelming support she received played a major role in her recovery.
“I’m feeling better every day and I’m honestly just really grateful to be here,” Sio told World Boxing News while relaxing in Oceanside alongside supportive boyfriend Jesse Sorenson.
“The last few days have been emotional for me and my family, but I truly believe God heard every prayer that was said for me. The love and support people have shown me from all over the world has meant more to me than I could ever explain.”
Sio said the experience has changed the way she now looks at everyday moments following the frightening incident.
“Being able to do simple things again has meant a lot. I got to go sit on the beach and watch the ocean for a while, and that moment really hit me emotionally. It reminded me how precious life is.
“I also got one of my favorite things I always get when I’m in California — carne asada burritos — and even something that simple felt really special after everything.”
Support From Boxing
Following the 78-second loss, the fallout gripped the sport as everyone — including WBN — wished the teenager well.
Sio addressed the love she received from across the boxing community during the most frightening period as she lay in a medically induced state.
“It honestly means the world to me,” she said.
“Boxing is such a tough sport, but it’s also a family. Seeing fighters, fans, and people I’ve never even met praying for me and sending support has touched my heart more than I can explain.”
Encouraged By Recovery
Having been placed in a coma on Saturday and remaining there until Monday, her return home two days later came as a huge relief for everyone involved.
“The doctors have been really encouraged by my progress,” Sio revealed.
“Waking up from a medically induced coma and recovering as quickly as I have is something they described as remarkable.
“I’m just focused on getting stronger every day and following their guidance.”
Message To Camarillo
Sio also addressed the criticism directed at opponent Jocelyn Camarillo following the bout. Camarillo was forced to take down footage of the knockout and put out a statement on social media.
“It honestly hurts me to see negativity directed at Jocelyn Camarillo,” she said.
“When fighters step into the ring we both understand the risks that come with the sport. I have nothing but love and respect for her as a fighter, and I truly wish her the best.
“I was also concerned about her mental well-being seeing some of the things people were saying online. No fighter deserves that. This sport is already tough enough, and I just hope she’s doing okay.”
As soon as she was able, Sio had publicly expressed support for Camarillo following the backlash directed at the fighter after the bout.
Grateful To Be Here
Looking back on the events that unfolded from the night of the fight through her recovery, Sio said she remains deeply thankful for the people who helped her through the ordeal.
“I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart,” she said.
“Thank you to the doctors and nurses who took care of me, to my family, Jesse, and my team who stayed by my side, and to every single person who prayed for me or sent love during this time.
“There were moments when my family didn’t know what the outcome would be, but the prayers and support from people everywhere carried us through those moments.
“I’m incredibly grateful to still be here, and I’ll never forget the love people showed me during this time.”
The California State Athletic Commission later placed the light flyweight on an indefinite medical suspension while she continues her recovery and considers her future in the sport.
Those wishing to assist Sio and her family with ongoing recovery and medical costs can support a fundraiser set up in her name here: Support Isis – A True Fighter Inside and Outside the Ring.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.