The streets of Manchester fell silent on Thursday as the boxing world gathered to bid a heartbreaking farewell to Scott Westgarth, the professional fighter who tragically died following his final match.
Leading the sombre procession was British boxing icon Ricky Hatton, who joined hundreds of mourners to honour the 31-year-old light-heavyweight. The emotional scene saw the tight-knit boxing community unite in shared grief.
A Community United in Grief
Westgarth, who collapsed after winning his fight on February 24th, passed away just days later in hospital, sending shockwaves through the sporting world. The Doncaster-born boxer had shown incredible courage in his final bout, only to succumb to his injuries shortly after.
Ricky Hatton's presence at the funeral underscored the profound impact of Westgarth's passing on the boxing fraternity. The former two-weight world champion stood solemnly among fellow fighters, trainers, and fans, all coming together to support one another in their loss.
Final Journey Through Manchester
The funeral cortege made its way through Manchester city centre, with floral tributes spelling out "Scotty" and "Warrior" adorning the hearse. Many attendees wore boxing gloves or sporting attire in tribute to the fallen athlete.
Westgarth's career, though cut tragically short, had shown remarkable promise. His final victory took his professional record to 7 wins and 2 losses, demonstrating the determination and spirit that made him beloved within the boxing community.
A Stark Reminder of Boxing's Dangers
This tragic event has reignited discussions about safety protocols within the sport. Promoters and fighters alike have expressed their condolences while reflecting on the inherent risks of professional boxing.
The overwhelming turnout for Westgarth's funeral demonstrates the deep bonds within the boxing world, where rivalries are set aside in moments of tragedy. As one mourner noted, "In boxing, we're all family when it matters most."
