The son of former WBU welterweight world champion Eamonn Magee has been killed in a stabbing in Belfast.
Eamonn Magee Jr. died from stab wounds he sustained at Summerhill Park in the Twinbrook area of west Belfast in the early hours of Saturday.
Magee Jr., 22, was a light-welterweight and held an undefeated record of 2-0, as he followed his father’s footsteps and became a professional boxer.
A 32-year old was arrested on suspicion of murder in the nearby Dunmurry area on Saturday.
Detective Chief Inspector John McVea of the Police Service of Northern Ireland said in a statement: “We are currently investigating the circumstances which led to the death of such a young man as Eamonn, who is a son, a brother, a partner, and a friend.
“I would therefore appeal to anyone who saw or heard any dispute in the Summerhill Park area, or knows anything about to murder, to contact detectives at Lisburn police station on the non-emergency number 101.
“Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800-555-111.”
IBF super-bantamweight champion Carl Frampton expressed his shock and sadness on Twitter. Frampton, who defeated Kiko Martinez in September 2014 to claim the IBF title, is also from Belfast.
“Absolutely terrible shocking news about Eamonn Magee Jr. May he RIP,” said Frampton.
Sinn Féin assembly member Jennifer McCann said: “A young man has tragically lost his life and no matter what, he’s somebody’s son.
“People are waking up here this morning; they’re seeing the cordoned off area; they’re hearing the sad news, so people are very, very shocked, and very saddened by this.”
His father, 42, retired in 2007 with a record of 27-6, with 18 knockouts.
He lost a unanimous decision to Ricky Hatton in 2002, where he knocked the Manchester fighter down for the first time in his career with a counter right hook in the opening round.
