Hearts break as much-loved boxer Georgia O'Connor dies after cancer batter, aged 25
Tributes are flowing for much-loved boxer Georgia O'Connor who has tragically died at the age of 25.
O'Connor was from Durham in England's north-east, and was a boxer on the rise after winning the gold medal at the Commonwealth Youth Games in 2017.
Last year she revealed she had ulcerative colitis (which gave her 'unbearable' cramps and bowel issues) and earlier this year she was diagnosed with cancer.
And in a heartbreaking twist, just two weeks ago she was married and taken her boyfriend's surname, Cardinali.
The boxing world has been shattered by the sad news.
'It's hard to make sense of this,' O'Connor's promoter Ben Shalom said.
'A lot goes on in life but nothing else matters other than your family and your health.
'My heart goes out to Georgia's parents and partner, who I know did everything they could tirelessly and are going through so much right now.
'Georgia was an inspirational person and one I'll never forget. So sorry for her family and all her friends. Truly heartbreaking.'
in 2021 O'Connor made her professional debut after a decorated stint as an amateur. Ben Shalom's Boxxer was her promoter and she was undefeated in three fights.
'We are heartbroken by the passing of Georgia O'Connor. A true warrior inside and outside the ring, the boxing community has lost a talented, courageous and determined young woman far too soon,' Boxxer said.
'Georgia was loved, respected and admired by her friends here at Boxxer. Our thoughts are with her loved ones at this difficult time.'
World champion Ellie Scotney said her good 'was the most beautiful human' on she had ever come across.
'I was so blessed with not just a friend for 10 years, but a sister for life,' Scotney said.
'Even when life was on a timer, you never let anything dim that light of yours. A smile that never ever fades, and a heart that will forever live on in so many ways.
'There was nothing you couldn't do, the world at your very feet no matter what room you entered.'
The World Boxing Association said O'Connor was a gifted British boxer whose dedication and fighting spirit left an 'indelible mark on the sport'.
'O'Connor, who rose to prominence with a standout performance at the Commonwealth Youth Games, showcased extraordinary talent every time she stepped between the ropes.
'She passed away at just 25 years old after a courageous battle with cancer—a fight she met with the same grit and heart that defined her boxing career.
'The WBA joins her family, friends, and the entire boxing community in grieving this heartbreaking loss. Georgia's legacy extends far beyond the ring — her passion for boxing and the bravery she displayed both inside and outside the squared circle will be remembered always.
'In this moment of sorrow, the WBA sends its heartfelt condolences to her loved ones and reaffirms its commitment to supporting and standing by the athletes who dedicate their lives to the sport.'
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