Georgia O’Connor, a rising professional boxer and former amateur standout, has passed away, leaving family, friends and fans in deep shock.
The boxing star died at the age of 25 and the boxing world has been left in serious mourning following the heartbreaking news. Before her untimely demise, Georgia O’Connor was widely recognized as one of the UK’s most promising boxing talents.
Earlier in 2025, she bravely revealed her cancer diagnosis, having previously battled ulcerative colitis—a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that had already tested her resilience.
Despite her health challenges, O’Connor remained an emblem of strength and positivity in her final days. Her tenacity both inside and outside the ring have earned her admiration across the global boxing community as more and more people come to know about her life following her passing.
Georgia O’Connor Was Born In Durham But Spent Time In France
Georgia O’Connor was born in Durham, England and was partly raised there. However, our findings show that she also briefly spent some time in France as a child. While there, she learnt French and actually became a fluent French speaker.
O’Connor was of Irish descent and she was proudly so. Growing up, the boxer developed a keen interest in combat sports and began taking Taekwondo classes and entering competitions. She would eventually become so good that she became a black belt older.
In fact, Georgia O’Connor did so well that she rose to become a three-time national champion in Taekwondo as well as being undefeated in kickboxing. She was basically living her dreams.
Combat sports was not the only thing Georgia O’Connor was interested in. Our findings show that she went to a eventually school and even studied for a degree in civil engineering. She was also interested in music and played the guitar. She also sang during her spare time.
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How Georgia O’Connor Rose From a Decorated Amateur to Undefeated Pro
Like most athletes, Georgia O’Connor’s boxing journey began in the amateur ranks, where she demonstrated her agility and talent. It didn’t take too long before she distinguished herself as a gifted athlete and everyone could see it.
Among her many accolades, she won a gold medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games and secured medals at the Youth World Championships and European Championships—solidifying her reputation as a future star of the sport.
Upon turning professional in October 2021, O’Connor signed with leading UK promoter Boxxer, under the leadership of Ben Shalom. She fought three fights and won all of them.
O’Connor maintained an undefeated record in three professional bouts, showcasing her technical skill, composure, and potential to ascend to championship status. Her last pro fight took place on 15 October 2022 at the The O2 Arena, London, England during which she faced off against Joyce Van Ee. O’Connor was victorious in the fight which lasted 4 rounds.
Tributes Have Begun to Pour In From the Boxing World
When the news of Georgia O’Connor’s passing broke, it caused a stir around the UK and across social media. Many fan were left deeply shocked about the tragedy.
Even though she had announced her cancer battle already, several people were praying for her and hoped for a fast recovery. This is more reason why her passing came as a rude shock to everyone who knew her.
Her passing has since prompted an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from across the boxing world. In a statement, Boxxer expressed deep sorrow:
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Georgia O’Connor. A true warrior inside and outside the ring, the boxing community has lost a talented, courageous and determined young woman far too soon. Georgia was loved, respected, and admired by her friends here at Boxxer. Our thoughts are with her loved ones at this difficult time.”
It is noteworthy that just two weeks prior to her passing, O’Connor shared the joyful news of her marriage, changing her surname to Cardinali in celebration of her union with her longtime partner.
Lot of tributes have also come in from top fighters and personalities, including people lie Claressa Shields, Jack Catterall, Jake Paul, Molly McCann, and Francesca Hennessy, who all expressed their sorrow at the loss of a bright young talent.
O’Connor Is Remembered for Her Spirit, Not Just Her Skills
Many people are remembering the boxer for her happy spirit, not just her great skills in the ring. She was said to have been a very funny and happy person who knew how to live life to the fullest.
World champion Ellie Scotney, a close friend of O’Connor’s for over a decade, offered an emotional tribute. She wrote:
“She was the most beautiful human I ever met. Even when life was on a timer, she never let anything dim her light. A smile that never faded and a heart that will live on forever. There was nothing she couldn’t do.”
Also, England Boxing, the national governing body for amateur boxing, praised her accomplishments and the impact she made:
“Georgia O’Connor was a gifted boxer and a beloved member of the amateur boxing community. She brought home medals from the Commonwealth Youth Games, Youth Worlds, and European Championships.”
Former boxer and 5 Live commentator Stacey Copeland added:
“It’s hard to comprehend how cruel life can be. Just 25 years old, she had so much ahead of her. But I know our boxing community will honour her memory. We’ll never forget her.”
Several others have paid tribute to the rising star whose light dimmed in her prime. From all the tributes, it is clear that O’Connor was a wonderful person who loved those around her. Though her time in the ring was tragically short, Georgia O’Connor’s legacy as an athlete, a fighter, and an inspiration lives on.
The boxer showed what it meant to face life’s hardest battles with grace, courage, and an unwavering smile. As the boxing world pays tribute, we are certain that Georgia O’Connor will be remembered not only for her achievements in the sport, but for the indomitable spirit that defined her life.
