Cancer charity ends partnership with boxing firm after three fighters die

07 October 2023 , 21:15

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Alastair's dad Richard Peck (Image: NB PRESS LTD)

Cancer Research UK and a white collar boxing firm have ended their corporate partnership.

Sponsored bouts staged by Ultra White Collar Boxing raised £27million for the charity but it faced pressure to distance itself following the deaths of three fighters. Richard Peck, 80, whose son Alastair, 44, died after a fight in 2017 and wants them stopped, welcomed the news, saying: “This decision will save lives. Alastair wouldn’t have taken part if it hadn’t been for the charity’s involvement.”

A coroner ruled in 2018 that Alastair died from head injuries sustained in his match. Dominic Chapman, 26, died after a 2022 bout and Jubal Reji Kurian, 23, this year.

Alastair died from head injuries sustained in his match (NB PRESS LTD)

CRUK said the move was “mutually agreed”, adding: “Our condolences remain with the family and friends of those affected.” UWCB said it initiated ending the exclusive relationship, to let participants “fundraise for any UK-based charity, including CRUK”.

Matthew Dresch