TROWBRIDGE boxer Nick Blackwell has said the overwhelming outpour of love and support from the boxing community made him emotional while recovering in hospital.

The 25-year-old is now back at home with his family after being discharged from hospital following his British middleweight title defeat which resulted in him being placed in an induced coma.

Last month, the boxer confirmed he would be retiring from boxing and said he couldn’t put his family and friends through a similar ordeal.

“I don't ever cry or get emotional,” said Nick, “but reading through all the messages people have been sending me has been really touching. I've had tons of people calling me a 'warrior' and a 'hero' and saying how brave I am. It really did take me by surprise.

“Then, of course, you have all the people who have raised money for me. It's incredible. It shows the power of the boxing community, the boxing family, and I've been humbled by everyone's generosity."

A Crowdfunding page set up by fellow middleweight Adam Etches, from Sheffield, to help Nick with his recovery has smashed its target of £10,000 and has reach nearly £12,000.

Other fundraisers have also been held across the country to help raise money for Nick.

He added: “Many boxers are forced to retire and have only their last purse to their name. But, thanks to some incredible human beings, I stand to have a little bit more, and that means I can go on and do something with my life.

“Ideally, at some stage, I'd like to personally thank every single one of the people who have donated money. I truly mean that. I want to make that happen.”

Blackwell's professional career saw him clinch 19 victories, with just four defeats and one draw.