A SCOTTISH boxing champion has died after an accident in Thailand as tributes pour in for the “much-loved” athlete.
Colin Cairney reportedly travelled to the city of Phuket with friends for a holiday while also attending boxing training camps in Thailand.
However, it emerged on Sunday that the boxer from Stirling was receiving intensive medical care and was on life support following a “devastating accident”.
The 22-year-old’s family had launched a GoFundMe to help cover the medical costs associated with his treatment, along with arranging for his safe return home.
However, according to local reports, Cairney has since died.
Staff at his boxing club, the 1314 gym in Stirling, posted an update on the fundraiser saying that they were “absolutely devastated” by the loss.
The post added: “Colin isn’t just a member of our club, he is family. He is a huge part of Team 1314 and someone who means so much to so many people.
“His presence, his character, and the memories we shared with him will stay with us forever.
“There are no words for a loss like this. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Colin’s family, friends, and everyone who loved him at this incredibly difficult time.
“Colin, you will be remembered forever and will always be in our hearts.
“Rest easy, Champ.”
Following the news of Cairney’s passing, dozens of people have paid tribute on social media to the “everyone’s champion”.
Cairney’s former school also hailed him as a “much-loved” member of the community with a “promising future”.
Stirling High School shared a heartfelt message on social media stating: “We are deeply saddened to receive the news that former pupil Colin Cairney has passed away.
“Colin was a much-loved member of our school community who had a promising future ahead of him. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends at this extremely difficult time.”
Several boxing clubs have also paid tribute to Cairney, who had a promising career in the sport with an unbeaten professional record of 10 wins from 10 fights.
He also won the WBO International Youth Welterweight Title in 2025 and represented Scotland at both European and World Championships at youth level.
Boxing Scotland shared that those at the organisation were “deeply saddened” to hear about Cairney’s passing.
The statement added: “The 22-year-old represented Scotland many times at prestigious competitions such as the European Junior Championships and the World Youth Championships.
“The pinnacle of his amateur career came in 2022 when he topped the bill at the Boxing Scotland Elite Finals, winning the Scottish Elite Light-Welterweight title in just his third senior contest.
“The Stirling-based boxer would make his professional debut the following year, amassing an undefeated record of 10-0.
“Our thoughts are with Colin’s family and friends at this very difficult and sad time.”
