The family of Costa Titch has disclosed the rapper’s cause of death 14 months after he died on stage.

South African rapper and dancer Costa Titch, born Costantinos Tsobanoglou, had died in March 2023 at age of 28 years after collapsing on stage while performing at Johannesburg’s Ultra Music Festival.

On May 8, his team released an official statement via his Instagram account, revealing that the artist’s death was due to a “significant strain” on his heart that led to an irregular heartbeat and a fatal seizure.

The statement read, “Amidst speculations, our team and family have collaborated with pathologists to unveil the true cause of his passing. The post-mortem examination revealed significant strain on Costa’s heart, unbeknownst to him, compounded by enduring stress and fatigue. The culmination likely led to an irregular heartbeat, triggering the seizure that claimed his life.”

The message further acknowledged Costa Titch’s impact on the music industry.

After his death in March, his family expressed their grief in a heartfelt message, saying, “Death has tragically knocked at our door, robbing us of our beloved son, brother, and grandson, Constantinos Tsobanoglou (28), whom South Africa had come to love and idolize under his stage name ‘Costa Titch.’”

“It is with deep pain that we find ourselves having to acknowledge his passing at this time. We are thankful for the emergency responders and all those present in his last hours on this earth,” the statement continued.

Costa was a galvanizing voice amongst South Africa’s amapiano scene—a talented rapper, dancer, songwriter, collaborator, and friend to the festival.”

Starting as a backup dancer, Costa Titch eventually rose to fame as a rapper and signed with Akon’s Konvict Kulture label.

He had collaborated with Akon on a single and was recognized at the South African Hip Hop Awards for best collaboration and best remix for “Nkalakatha” featuring Riky Rick and AKA.