'They are finally back together again': ‘King of Sheffield’ tragically lost brother in knife attack

Willy Collins, a former bare knuckle fighter who was well known across Sheffield, is to be buried tomorrow in the same city cemetery where his brother Anthony Collins was laid to rest after a fatal stabbing 18 years ago.

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Father-of-nine Willy, aged 49, died suddenly on the Spanish island of Mallorca, where he was holidaying with his wife, Kathleen, last month.

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A huge funeral is to be held tomorrow, with a graveside mass and burial at Shiregreen Cemetery planned for 1pm.

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In 2002, Willy was left fighting for life after an attack in which his brother, Anthony, known as ‘Marty Boy,’ died.

The were stabbed at the Afro Caribbean Club, Spital Hill, when a dispute in the club developed into violence.

Drug dealer Mark Lloyd Roberts, who was in his 30s and from Burngreave Road, left the club after an initial argument and returned in combat gear and a balaclava, armed with two knives.

He stabbed Anthony through his heart and left Willy with serious chest and lung injuries.

The Territorial Army soldier, who had been ‘trained to kill’, pleaded guilty to murder and wounding with intent and was jailed for life.

He was ordered to serve a minimum of 12 years before being eligible for parole, which was later reduced to 11.

In a Facebook post, Willy’s wife said the two brothers were ‘finally back together again’.

“They are finally back together again. Two legends back together again,” she said.

“I couldn’t be more happier to know he is with his baby brother, who he loved very much and spoke about every day.”

In a message aimed at Anthony, she said: “18 year ago he nearly died with you but you left him with me for 18 year. You were like my own child to me, please put your arms around him for me and kiss him and tell him I love him, because I know he never wanted to leave us.

“Together again forever and always.”