The family of Belfast boxer Stephen McMullan have welcomed plans for a charity football match to help him on his road to recovery.
The match between Patrick Pearse's GAC and Ard Eoin Kickhams GAA will take place on Friday 28th January at 6pm at Cliftonville Playing Fields, known locally as 'The Cricky'.
It comes as Stephen, who fights with Newington Amateur Boxing Club in North Belfast, recovers after becoming unwell the day after his Ulster Elite final in early December.
The 25-year-old heavyweight is now being treated in the stroke ward after five weeks in Intensive Care at the Royal Victoria Hospital.
Stephen did not require medical attention immediately after his heavyweight final when he was defeated by Charlie Boyle of Monkstown in the provincial decider at the Girdwood Community Hub.
His cousin Mary Toman has started a fundraising page to help his family afford his intensive rehabilitation and an Eyegaze computer system, which he will need to enable him to communicate with others.
The initial £5,000 target has already been smashed within a few days.
Posting on social media, Cumann an Phiarsaigh CLG said: "The club were recently made aware of a fundraiser in aid of Newington ABC boxer, Stephen McMullan. A local man who is recovering from a brain injury sustained in the Ulster Elite Senior Boxing Finals.
"Stephen is showing signs of recovery and is fighting strongly. His family have set up a JustGiving page to raise money for equipment to help with his recovery so we would like to help push them closer to their target.
"Next Friday we and CLG Ciceam Ard Eoin will be setting rivalries aside to face each other in an exhibition match in aid of Stephen’s recovery equipment!
"It would be great to get as much support as possible for this worthwhile local cause."
Stephen’s girlfriend Aimee Fitzsimons has welcomed the plan, posting on Facebook: "Amazing the support we have been given, so so kind of everyone."
Stephen's sister Claire McMullan added: "Absolutely amazing thank you so much."
Former boxing champions Carl Frampton and Paddy Barnes are among those who have sent encouraging video messages to the recovering fighter.
Any funds not used towards Stephen's recovery will be donated to ICU and the Stroke Ward in The Royal Victoria Hospital, his family said.
If you would like to donate to Stephen’s fundraising page, you can do so here.
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