Willie Limond, the former British and Commonwealth boxing champion, passed away at the age of 45, as confirmed by his son Jake on Monday.
His boxing career saw him hold the lightweight Commonwealth title from 2006 to 2007, the super-lightweight title from 2013 to 2014, and the British super-lightweight belt in 2014.
Even in his forties, Limond remained active in the boxing ring and was scheduled to fight Joe Laws on May 3. His last bout was in September 2023, where he faced a defeat in the eighth round to fellow Scot Ricky Burns.
Limond’s Glasgow-based gym, St Andrew’s Sporting Club, also confirmed the news on social media, saying:
“Everyone at St Andrew’s Sporting Club are shocked and deeply saddened at the loss of our friend, Willie Limond.
“Willie was not only a legend of the sport, but an infectious character who will be greatly missed by us all.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jake, Drew, Macy and the rest of the Limond family at this time.”
The British Boxing Board of Control also paid tribute to Limond.
“The British Boxing Board of Control are very saddened to learn of the tragic passing of former British and Commonwealth Champion Willie Limond,” a statement said.
“Our sincere sympathies and thoughts are with Willie’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Limond started his professional boxing journey in 1999, amassing an impressive record of 42 wins out of 48 fights.
Throughout his career, he engaged in high-profile matches against renowned opponents such as Amir Khan, Erik Morales, and Anthony Crolla.
In 2010, Limond faced the legendary Mexican boxer Morales in Mexico City, where he was halted in the sixth round.
Notably, in their 2007 showdown, Limond managed to stun future world champion Khan by knocking him down in the sixth round. However, Khan rallied and ultimately compelled Limond to retire in Round 8.