From Levenshulme to Las Vegas to Forest Bank - the downfall of an ex-champion boxer

John Murray, once a promising boxing star from Levenshulme, had a meteoric rise from stacking shelves and flipping burgers to becoming a World Youth Champion and British Boxer of the Year. After significant victories at major venues, including a bout at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, he retired in 2014 with a 33-3 record. However, his life took a dark turn. Following the closure of his boxing gym due to financial struggles, he lost his sense of purpose. By 2026, he was sentenced to three years in prison for violent crimes against two women. The attacks included one where he punched a woman while her children were in the car and a horrific incident with his ex-partner involving strangulation and assault. Despite a once-respected career, Murray’s downfall underscores the complexities of life after professional sports.

Read the full article at Manchester Evening News