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Nick Blackwell (file photo). PA Archive/Press Association Images

Boxer who was in induced coma says recovery his 'toughest fight'

The 25-year-old collapsed shortly after his 10th-round stoppage loss to Chris Eubank Jr.

NICK BLACKWELL SAID he was in the “toughest fight of his life” after waking from an induced coma following his British middleweight title defeat by Chris Eubank Jr.

Blackwell, 25, collapsed shortly after his 10th-round stoppage loss to Eubank Jr at London’s Wembley Arena on 26 March.

He was then taken to London’s St Mary’s Hospital with a bleed on the skull before doctors placed him in an induced coma.

Tuesday saw Blackwell make his first public comment since the bout as he posted a message thanking well-wishers for their support on his brother Daniel’s Facebook account.

Just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has been there for me, all my friends and family, those who wished me well and those who raised money for me,” Blackwell said.

“I feel truly blessed and have massive love for you all. I couldn’t have done it without you.

“It’s been the toughest fight of my life and you all have made it that bit easier.

On to rehab now, progress is getting better by the day. Big love to you all, Nick.”

During the fight Chris Eubank senior, the father of the new champion, could be heard telling his son to stop hitting Blackwell’s head.

His ringside instructions were especially poignant as, 25 years ago, Eubank senior stopped Michael Watson in a world title fight that left his beaten opponent with irreparable brain damage and partially paralysed.

© AFP, 2016

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    Mute Kenneth O Brien
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    Mar 28th 2018, 3:39 PM

    Puts sport into perspective get well soon Pat

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    Mute Michael John Gardiner
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    Mar 28th 2018, 3:41 PM

    Best wishes Pat hope u make a speedy recovery
    One Gentleman

    Mike Gardiner

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    Mute Christy Morrison
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    Mar 28th 2018, 4:06 PM

    Hope Pat makes a full recovery and we see him back in saddle soon

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    Mute John Hayes
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    Mar 28th 2018, 4:13 PM

    Pat you’re tough out and you’ll get through this no doubt.

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    Mute Thomas Linehan
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    Mar 28th 2018, 4:47 PM

    Get well soon

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    Mute Jimmy Myers
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    Mar 28th 2018, 4:52 PM

    Hope pat makes a full recovery , one of the best I have ever seen in a finish, how hard is it going to be now to pick a winner at Dundalk on of the best round the track.

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    Mute Michael Farrell
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    Mar 28th 2018, 5:28 PM

    Best wishes to pat smullen for a successful recovery from his illness.not a betting man but know of pat as a champion jockey.

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    Mute Derek Rochford
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    Mar 28th 2018, 4:32 PM

    A gentleman. Sorry to hear about your illness and PG you will be back sooner than expected
    Life can be cruel at times!

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    Mute Michael Carton
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    Mar 28th 2018, 5:03 PM

    Best wishes Pat

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    Mute Casper
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    Mar 28th 2018, 5:44 PM

    Best of wishes pat and hopefully you make a good recovery soon

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    Mute Asha
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    Mar 28th 2018, 6:07 PM

    The very best of luck in your recovery Patrick.

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    Mute Michael Carton
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    Mar 28th 2018, 5:03 PM

    Best

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    Mute Nigel O'Connor
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    Mar 28th 2018, 7:03 PM

    Get well soon Pat.

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    Mute Liam Sheahan
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    Mar 28th 2018, 7:49 PM

    Best wishes for a full recovery to good health.Wonderful jockey and sportsman.

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    Mute Alex Kemp
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    Mar 28th 2018, 7:41 PM

    You won’t be beaten from the front and you won’t be beaten by this either. Top top jock. See you back in the saddle soon Smulls.

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    Mute Dannie Fleming
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    Mar 28th 2018, 8:46 PM

    Get well soon Pat. Stay strong

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    Mute Jason 0'Toole
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    Mar 29th 2018, 8:49 AM

    A gentleman…. Speedy recovery Pat.

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