‘A young man doing job he loved has died’
Westgarth. To promote a boxing show and a young man doing a job he loves losing his life, I have no words.
“RIP lad, thoughts go out to your family and your team, it’s been the hardest few days I’ve had to endure. No idea what to do moving forward.”
Westgarth conducted a post-fight interview before his condition declined, and was treated by paramedics prior to being taken to hospital.
British Boxing Board of Control general secretary Robert Smith said: “I’ve spoken to the doctors and officials in charge and am satisfied with the procedures.
“It’s a terrible thing that’s happened. My condolences to all of his family.”
Smith said the sport had made huge advances in safety since the 1980s and that Britain had an enviable record. He said: “We are one of the most forward thinking commissions in the world regarding medical aspects.
“Some people don’t like us because they say we are too strict.
“This is a tough sport and we try to make it as safe as possible but you can’t make it 100 per cent safe.
“But that doesn’t take away from the fact this is a disaster, but more importantly it’s a disaster for his family.”
Tributes flooded in on social media with opponent Spellman posting: “Absolutely heartbroken and lost for words. I’ll continue to pray for Scott’s family and the people close to him. Rest easy my friend.”
Woodhouse added: “Heartbreaking news about Scott Westgarth. RIP champ”, while Ricky Hatton wrote: “Heartbreaking this. Thoughts to his friends and family. Rest in peace young man.”