Former Australian boxing champion Josh Frederiksen has died aged 36 after a skydiving accident in Queensland. Frederiksen, who held the Australian light heavyweight title during a 20-fight professional career, was taking part in a routine jump at Skydive Ramblers Toogoolawah, north-west of Brisbane, on Wednesday.

A routine jump turns fatal

Frederiksen was an experienced skydiver who had completed more than 100 jumps. His parachute opened as expected, but he was caught in turbulence close to the ground and suffered a hard landing. He sustained critical injuries to his chest, pelvis and abdomen, and was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, where he died overnight.

Federation confirms the death

The Australian Parachute Federation confirmed his death in a statement, saying it was deeply saddened by the loss of one of its members following a landing accident. Its chief executive, Stephen Porter, expressed condolences to Frederiksen's family. Queensland Police are preparing a report for the coroner as the circumstances of the accident are examined.

Tributes pour in

Tributes have been paid to Frederiksen, a popular figure in the Brisbane boxing community. Friends and fellow boxers remembered him as a talented fighter and a warm presence in the gym. His family has set up a fundraising appeal to help with funeral costs.