Champ could leave you doubled over... with a body shot or his patter

A ROAR went around the Hydro as thousands of Scots boxing fans hailed a hero.

Willie Limond may have lost to Ricky Burns but he went out there like a warrior, just like he always did. And just like he did until the tragic end yesterday, more than a week battling for his life in hospital following a suspected seizure.

Limond won plenty of bouts in his distinguished career but this was one he couldn't win.

It's a loss that has hit hard for everyone in Scottish boxing, and sport in general in this country and beyond.

Limond was a thrilling, brave, bold and skilful boxer. But more than that, he was one of the game's good guys, a top-class person as well as professional.

His passing is devastating for his family and friends, and for everyone who has crossed his path or cheered him on for more than two decades in the ring.

Limond was set to return to the ring next month against Joe Laws at the Emirates at the age of 45. And rarely looked better.

When he returned to the ring for that Burns bout last year he joked about having to lose four stone to get into shape. Not this time. When the Laws fight was announced he was lean and loving being in tip top condition.