The exceptionally talented boxer Jude Moore has tragically passed away at the age of 19.
The Bristol native, who trained at Downend Boxing and Hoddesdon Boxing Academy, was found dead on Friday (March 17), his family has confirmed.
The two-time national champion represented the Three Lions at the EUBC Junior European Championships in Romania in 2017.
Advert
The young man had just won his first senior fight after knocking out the Polish national champion and was set to compete in Milan this week.
According to England and Boxing, Downend head coach Craig Turner says he's ‘devastated’ by the news and that ‘a leading light in the world had gone out’.
“He was an absolute star, irreplaceable. Once you met him, you would never forget him,” he said, as per the outlet.
Advert
He added: "The fact that he came from one of the most deprived wards in Great Britain to do what he did and achieved what he did is nothing short of amazing. Downend Boxing Club exists for people like him."
Turner added that he had never seen such an 'analytical mind' on a boxer and his 'immense' talent was undeniable.
He continued: "He was outstanding at everything he did and we are devastated. He didn’t burn for long, but he burned very brightly for the time he did.”
The head coach believed Jude was destined for greatness.
Advert
"He was an entertainer and boxing is an entertainment business. That's why I am sure he would have gone on and won a world title," he said.
Hoddesdon also shared a heartwarming message in a statement on its Facebook page.
They wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that we as a club are deeply saddened with the sudden passing of our amateur boxer Jude Moore.
Advert
“[He was] 19 years old with an infectious personality and he was a truly valuable asset to us from helping the club with coaching the babies boxing classes and the adults keep fit classes.
“[He was] loved by all he came into contact with and we as a club were excited by what was to come. Love to you Jude and family.”
Turner has already organised a GoFundMe page for Jude's family.
He said donations would be forwarded to the Downend Boxing Club and transferred to the late boxer's parents.
Advert
The head coach hopes the donations for the funeral will alleviate the financial stress of the tragedy.
He wrote: "His parents, Mark and Carla, and brothers, Ethan and Beau, currently have no answers as to what happened to this larger-than life character.
"Whilst nothing anyone can say or do can lessen the sense of loss they and everyone who knew Jude feels, we can show them our love and support with a donation towards the cost of the funeral that should never have to be."
So far, over £6,600 (AUD $12,085) has been raised.
If you would like to donate, head here.
Charisa Bossinakis