Colin Cairney, an undefeated Scottish welterweight boxer, has died aged 22 after suffering catastrophic injuries in a road incident during a holiday in Thailand. Cairney had been left on life support following the incident, which occurred in the early hours of 14 June on the island of Phuket. Get today's headlines by email His boxing club, Team 1314, confirmed his death in a statement posted on a GoFundMe page established to support his family. The club described the loss as devastating and paid tribute to a boxer they said was “family” and a valued part of the team. According to reports, Cairney was returning to his hotel after a night of partying in Phuket when the incident happened. It is understood he became involved in a dispute with the driver of a tuk-tuk over payment of the fare. The driver was reportedly taking him to an ATM so he could withdraw cash. During the return journey, Cairney fell from the back of the vehicle and suffered a severe head injury. Emergency medical personnel arrived at approximately 4.10am and transported him to Patong Hospital. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he was later transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment. Before his death was confirmed, Cairney’s family launched a GoFundMe appeal seeking assistance to return him to the UK for treatment and recovery. The fundraising page raised more than GBP60,000. The family wrote: “We are reaching out with heavy hearts to ask for help for our son, who has been seriously injured in an accident while in Thailand.” They added: “What began as a normal trip has turned into every parent’s worst nightmare.” Following confirmation of his death, tributes continued to be paid by friends, supporters and members of the boxing community. Team 1314 said: “Everyone at Team 1314 is absolutely devastated by the loss of our Colin.” The club added: “Colin, you will be remembered forever and will always be in our hearts. Rest easy, Champ.” A separate fundraiser organised by Team 1314 has raised more than GBP55,000. The club described the period as “an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time for everyone who knows and loves him.” The Sun reported that Cairney leaves behind an unbeaten professional record of 10 victories from 10 fights, including six wins by knockout. His family, friends and supporters are now mourning his loss while continuing arrangements following his death. Picture courtesy of The Sun Related stories British-boxer-falls-from-tuk-tuk-in-Phuket Tuk-tuk-driver-sought-after-British-tourist-hurt-in-Phuket Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now The-Sun 18 June 2026
View full article
