Gay and race hate shame of Tartan Tornado
BOXING CHAMP SAYS SORRY
WORLD champion boxer Josh Taylor last night apologised for hurling racist and homophobic abuse at a doorman after being thrown out of a nightclub. The Scot called the Asian bouncer “a gaylooking c**t” and “a big orange-looking c**t” when he and a pal were chucked out of the Edinburgh venue on Sunday.
Taylor admitted the 3am offence at the Shanghai club when he appeared at the city’s sheriff court yesterday. The 28-year-old had a not guilty plea to possessing cocaine accepted by prosecutors. The incident came only weeks after Taylor beat Regis Prograis on points to become the unified IBF and WBA superlightweight champion in October. Taylor, nicknamed the Tartan Tornado, took to Twitter to express contrition to his 88,000 followers. He wrote: “While out celebrating with friends on Saturday in Edinburgh I made some stupid comments and poor decisions resulting in legal charges. “I hold my hands up for making remarks which caused offence and I was rightfully found guilty of. I’m ashamed about the whole incident.
“The other charge, I have been rightfully found not guilty of. I would never risk my career and reputation with drugs.”
Taylor, of Prestonpans, East Lothian, added: “I wholeheartedly apologise for my stupid actions.
“It’s been a rollercoaster of a year for me, becoming unified world champion and on this occasion I’ve taken it too far.
“I can only apologise, not only to those whom I offended but to my family and friends for the upset I’ve caused.
“There’s no excuse for the comments and the disturbance.
“I want to thank my family, friends and fans for their support over the years and can assure them I will endeavour to make them proud once more.”
The court heard police were called to the George Street nightspot and Taylor was held and charged.
He admitted to behaving in a threatening and abusive manner. The charge was aggravated by prejudice on sexual orientation and the offence was also racially aggravated.
Prosecutor Alistair Millar told the court there was a “disturbance” in the club after one of Taylor’s pals was asked to leave due to drunken behaviour. Millar added: “Security staff said the accused was intoxicated and was also asked to leave the premises.”
Cameron Tait, defending Taylor, said: “Mr Taylor remonstrated with the door staff and advises me they were rude and aggressive.”
Sheriff Nigel Ross fined Taylor £350. He noted the boxer was “ashamed and had apologised”.