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Tapia released from Las Vegas hospital

January 13, 2003 Print it


LAS VEGAS -- Boxer Johnny Tapia was sent home from the hospital Monday, two days after collapsing unconscious at home with what had been described as a head injury.

Tapia, 35, had been admitted to University Medical Center in critical condition early Saturday, and spent the weekend on life support.

In a statement released Monday, Dr. Joaquim Tavares said tests found no damage to Tapia's brain or heart.

Tavares also concluded that there was no medical reason Tapia can't fight again.

Tapia was met at the hospital by his wife, Teresa, and friends. A hospital spokesman said Tapia declined media interviews.

Authorities said Tapia collapsed hours after he and his cousin were involved in a police standoff Friday at a house near Bullhead City, Ariz.

Two men were arrested and Tapia was given a summons in that case charging him with possessing drug paraphernalia, police said.

Tapia was hospitalized two years ago after a drug overdose that was described as an attempted suicide.

He last fought Nov. 3, losing a 12-round decision to bantamweight Marco Antonio Barrera.