British boxer Georgia O’Connor has passed away at the age of 25 following a fight with cancer, her promotion company BOXXER announced on Thursday.
“We are heartbroken by Georgia’s passing,” BOXXER said in an Instagram post. “A true warrior both in and out of the ring, the boxing world has lost a talented, brave, and determined young woman far too soon. She was deeply loved and respected by everyone at BOXXER. Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time.”
O’Connor had previously shared that she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease causing inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. She described enduring severe symptoms such as needing to use the restroom 15 to 20 times daily and suffering intense bowel cramps. She also revealed experiencing a miscarriage during her pregnancy.
In January, O’Connor disclosed on Instagram that she had been diagnosed with cancer after enduring persistent pain. Her mother set up a fundraising page, explaining that the cancer was “rare and aggressive” and deemed “incurable” by doctors.
On May 12, O’Connor shared the joyous news that she had married her partner, Adriano, and changed her last name to Cardinali.
Fellow boxer Ellie Scotney, the super-bantamweight world champion and longtime friend of O’Connor, paid tribute on Instagram, describing her as “the most beautiful human I’ve ever met.” Scotney reflected on their friendship of over ten years, praising O’Connor’s spirit, kindness, and strength despite her illness. She said, “Life can be so cruel, and it seems it’s often the best of us who face such hardships. You showed the world how special life is and how to cherish every moment. Even on a timer, your light never dimmed.”
During her boxing career, O’Connor won gold at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games. She turned professional in 2021 and maintained an undefeated record, winning all three of her pro fights. Her last bout took place in October 2022.
England Boxing honored her as a “hugely talented boxer and much-loved member of the boxing community.” They said, “Georgia inspired many with her accomplishments inside the ring and her courage outside it. Her dedication, passion, and talent made her a role model for young athletes nationwide. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.”
