On September 29, 2024, professional boxer Mylik Birdsong, aged 31, was fatally shot in Los Angeles. Known in the boxing community as "King Mylik," Birdsong held a 15-1-1 record and was the reigning World Boxing Foundation International Welterweight champion. The incident occurred around 4:50 p.m. near Watts, Los Angeles, while Birdsong was standing outside a vehicle with his girlfriend. A dark-colored SUV approached, and multiple men inside opened fire.
Birdsong attempted to flee but was pursued by two suspects who continued shooting, ultimately striking him seven times in the chest. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
At the time of his death, Birdsong was scheduled to fight Gor Yeritsyan on October 26 at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, marking his return to the ring since his last bout in March. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is actively investigating the case. The suspects fled the scene in the SUV, and no arrests have been made thus far. Authorities are exploring various leads, including the possibility of gang-related motives, as some reports suggest Birdsong may have had affiliations with local gangs. However, no definitive connections have been confirmed.
Birdsong's death has elicited an outpouring of grief from the boxing community and fans worldwide. Tributes have flooded social media, with many expressing shock and sorrow over the loss of a promising athlete whose career was on an upward trajectory. His family, particularly his mother and stepfather, have publicly mourned his passing, calling for justice and the apprehension of those responsible. The investigation remains ongoing, with the LAPD urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in solving the case.
