Tragedy struck the boxing world as Georgia O’Connor, a gifted young athlete and beloved figure, passed away at just 25 years old—mere weeks after marrying the love of her life. Her death has sparked outrage after she revealed months of medical neglect despite suffering from severe symptoms linked to cancer.
Hailing from Durham, UK, Georgia was a shining star in British boxing, capturing gold at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games and inspiring many as a proud member of Team GB’s amateur squad.
Earlier this year, Georgia bravely shared her devastating diagnosis: a terminal cancer compounded by ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. On Instagram, she broke the news with raw honesty:
“There’s really no easy way to say this, but I have cancer.”
She didn’t hold back in calling out the healthcare system:
“Now that’s out the way, it’s time to expose the absolute incompetent RATS that have allowed this to happen.”
For 17 agonizing weeks, Georgia endured relentless pain and repeatedly sought help, convinced something was seriously wrong—especially given her existing health risks like PSC (primary sclerosing cholangitis). Yet, she says doctors dismissed her pleas for scans and tests, leaving her suffering alone:
“Not one doctor listened. They gaslit me, told me it was nothing, refused to investigate. One even said it was ‘all in my head.’”
The cancer had already spread when it was finally diagnosed, and she was also found to have life-threatening blood clots in her lungs. Georgia’s frustration with the NHS was clear:
“They could have done something before it got this bad. After 17 weeks of agony, why should I believe them when they say it’s terminal?”
In a cruel twist of fate, just a month before her birthday, Georgia revealed she had also miscarried—losing hope but never her fighting spirit. “I have what people consider the worst disease known to man, but I’m still able to smile, laugh and be myself,” she wrote.
Only two weeks ago, Georgia celebrated a joyful milestone—marrying her partner Adriano. Her final Instagram post captured her love and courage:
“09.05.2025. The day I married the love of my life.”
The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust expressed condolences and encouraged the family to reach out if they wish to raise concerns about her care.
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing world. Ben Shalom’s Boxxer promoter said:
“We are heartbroken. Georgia was a true warrior inside and outside the ring—a courageous and determined young woman taken far too soon.”
World champion and longtime friend Ellie Scotney called Georgia the “most beautiful human,” adding:
“I was blessed with a sister for life. Even when life was on a timer, you never let your light fade. Your smile and heart will live on forever.”
England Boxing remembered her as a “beloved member of the amateur boxing community” and a “gifted boxer” whose spirit inspired many.
Georgia O’Connor’s story is one of brilliance, bravery, and heartbreaking loss—a reminder of the urgent need for compassion and vigilance in healthcare. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and admired her.
