Raven Chapman could fly back to UK next week after second brain surgery

Raven Chapman could travel back to the United Kingdom next week after a second successful operation to treat a brain bleed she suffered following a sparring session in Denmark on 24 July. The 32-year-old collapsed during training and remains in hospital recovering from the incident.

Chapman was airlifted by helicopter to hospital after collapsing on 24 July and was diagnosed with a brain haematoma and cerebral oedema. She underwent emergency surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma before her condition stabilised sufficiently for further treatment.

Vote Boxing, Chapman’s management company, confirmed she had a further successful procedure and issued a statement on her progress. "This marks another important step in her recovery while also making it safer for her to travel back to the UK," the statement said.

Chapman’s professional record stands at 10 wins and two losses. The Norwich-born fighter’s most recent high-profile bout ended in defeat to Skye Nicolson in October 2024 when she challenged for the WBC featherweight title in the only women's world-title fight ever held in Saudi Arabia.

A GoFundMe page set up to assist with Chapman’s rehabilitation and after-care has raised over £88,000. "We would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone who has supported Raven through her GoFundMe, as well as everyone who has sent messages, shared their prayers, and shown kindness throughout this incredibly difficult time," the statement added. "Your generosity and support have meant more than words can express and have provided tremendous strength to Raven and her loved ones. "Thank you for continuing to keep Raven in your thoughts as she continues her recovery."

"If everything continues to progress as hoped, we are aiming for Raven to fly home sometime next week, where she can continue her recovery surrounded by her family and loved ones. "Although there is still a long road ahead, this is a significant milestone, and we remain hopeful as Raven continues to make progress each day." a statement said.