A shock knockout at the 2026 Commonwealth Games stunned spectators after Wales’ Orlando Holley-Sotomi smashed Lesotho’s Refiloe Thai through the ropes during their men’s 70kg boxing quarterfinal, prompting an immediate medical response inside the ring.The scary sequence unfolded just over a minute into the opening round when Holley-Sotomi unleashed a devastating right hand that landed on the Thai’s temple.The impact left the Lesotho boxer unable to defend himself as he collapsed through the ropes, creating one of the Games’ most dramatic and disturbing moments to date.
The tragic knockout halted the quarterfinal
The quarterfinal started at a fast pace, with both boxers looking to establish control early. The Thai started aggressively, but Holley-Sotomi gradually found her rhythm and started landing clean punches.Prosperity came quickly.A powerful right hand caught the Thai in the temple, immediately taking his balance. As the Welsh boxer followed up with a left hand, the Thai collapsed through the ropes, ending up supported by the bottom rope while lying motionless.Medical personnel rushed into the ring for a few seconds to tend to the injured boxer before carefully bringing him back inside the ring for treatment.Fortunately, Thai soon showed encouraging signs by trying to sit up while the doctors continued their examination, allaying fears after the terrifying scenes.The referee immediately waved off the bout, giving Holley-Sotomi a first-round knockout victory.WATCH:
Holley-Sotomi committed to a medal
While concern remains focused on the Thai’s condition, the win marks an impressive milestone for the 22-year-old Welsh boxer.Holley-Sotomi had already impressed earlier in the tournament by defeating Paddy Hewitt in his first match. His tight knockout victory today sent him into the semifinals, assuring him of at least a bronze medal.Despite his impressive performances, the Welsh prospect insists he remains grounded.“I’m taking it one day at a time and taking it all in. I’m grateful to be here and yes, I hope to continue to get in there again.The stunning stoppage has already drawn comparisons to some of boxing’s most memorable one-punch knockouts, underscoring Holley-Sotomi’s growing reputation as one of the breakout stars of the Glasgow Games.