Willie Limond: Former British boxing champion dies at age of 45

Former British and Commonwealth champion Willie Limond has died at the age of 45, his son has announced on social media.

Limond, who won 42 of his 48 fights as a professional from 1999 to 2023, had fallen ill last week after suffering a suspected seizure while driving.

"Shouldn't even have to be writing a post like this at all and I normally wouldn't but because of all the journalists and the fake news that has been spread about I have to," said son Jake on Instagram.

"My dad passed away in the early hours of the morning around 3am. He fought on for near enough 10 days.

"Warrior. Love you da."

Limond, who previously made five league appearances as a footballer for Albion Rovers, held the British super lightweight title in 2014 after beating Curtis Woodhouse via majority decision.

In 2007 he notably knocked down an emerging Amir Khan in the defence of his Commonwealth title, before eventually retiring in the eighth round against the future world champion.

He had also held the European title in 2004 following his unanimous decision victory over Youssouf Djibaba, and would later share the ring with Anthony Crolla in a fight for the British title in 2011.

Limond most recently fought in September 2023 when he suffered an eighth-round stoppage defeat to Ricky Burns in Glasgow.

A statement from the Scot's boxing club, the St Andrew's Sporting Club, read: "Everyone at St Andrew's Sporting Club are shocked and deeply saddened at the loss of our friend, Willie Limond.

"Willie was not only a legend of the sport, but an infectious character who will be greatly missed by us all.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Jake, Drew, Macy and the rest of the Limond family at this time."