By Rafael Soto

As previously reported on BoxingScene.com, Mexicali fighter Francisco Javier 'Frankie' Leal, 26-years-old, passed away earlier today at a medical facility in San Diego, California. Leal was being treated for injuries that he suffered during last Saturday's eight round knockout loss to Raul Hirales in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Shortly after the loss, Leal fell into a coma and never recovered.

Leal left a record of 20 career wins, eight defeats, three draws and 13 knockouts. Promoter Fernando Beltran of Zanfer Promotions, who staged Saturday's card, was very upset with the tragic turn of events.

"This hurts a lot. We knew Frankie Leal very well and he was a good kid, a great fighter, and a warrior inside and outside the ring. Now we can only unite in the grief felt by his family, the sport of boxing, and try to help in whatever way is needed," said Beltran.

"It hurts that this happened. Our prayers and solidarity [are with his family]. We knew that Leal was a fine young man who liked to live a good life. Unfortunately this has happened and I will try my best to provide his family with our full support in this difficult time."