The boxing world is in mourning following the death of rising star Georgia O’Connor, who passed away at the age of 25 after a brave battle with cancer.
O’Connor, a former Commonwealth Youth Games gold medallist, died just two weeks after revealing on social media that she had married her partner, Adriano. The young athlete had been diagnosed with cancer in October 2024.
A hugely promising talent, O’Connor first made headlines when she secured gold for England at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games. She went on to represent Team GB and was part of the high-profile undercard for the Claressa Shields vs Savannah Marshall bout at London’s O2 Arena in 2022.
O’Connor made a successful start to her professional career, amassing a 3-0 record before her illness interrupted her progress in the sport.
In her final Instagram post, O’Connor shared the heartfelt news of her marriage to Adriano, capturing the joy of their union despite her ongoing health battle.
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing community, with her promoter, BOXXER, releasing a statement expressing their deep sadness.
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Georgia O’Connor,” the statement read. “A true warrior inside and outside the ring, the boxing community has lost a talented, courageous and determined young woman far too soon. Georgia was loved, respected and admired by her friends here at BOXXER. Our thoughts are with her loved ones at this difficult time.”
O’Connor’s death is a devastating blow to British boxing. Known not only for her skill and grit in the ring, she was admired for her resilience, warmth, and positivity throughout her fight with illness.
She is remembered not just as a fighter, but as an inspiration to many – a shining talent taken far too soon.