Sheffield boxer Lee Noble dies aged 33 after long battle with cancer

Lee, who was from Barnsley and trained at the Ingle gym under the legendary Brendan Ingle, had battled the disease since October 2014 when he was diagnosed with leukemia.

The former two-time British and international masters champion passed away in the early hours of this morning in Sheffield with family and friends by his side, according to reports in the national press.

Once a English super welterweight title contender, Lee fought 47 times in a career which included clashes against the likes of Billy Joe Saunders and Martin Murray.

He was given the ‘all clear’ from cancer in 2015 but fell ill again in 2018. In February 2019 he confirmed the illness had spread to his brain and bone marrow and was terminal.

After doctors told him there was no more treatment available last year, he said: “I won’t stop fighting until it’s impossible to fight.

"I want to thank everyone who has supported me and shown me love over the last six years and those who followed me all over the country with my boxing career, and most of all my mum and dad for keeping positive when I was at my lowest".

Lee’s last bought came in September 2014 - his fifth consecutive win – and his professional record stood at 20 wins – including three knockouts - 24 losses and three draws.

Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn led tributes to Lee on social media.

He tweeted: “Very saddened to hear of the passing of Lee Noble.

"Lee fought his illness so bravely for many years and my thoughts and everyone at Matchroom are with him and his family. At peace now.”

Former world champion Anthony Crolla tweeted: “RIP Lee Noble. Life can be so cruel at times. Battled so hard for a long time.”

Nicknamed ‘lightning’, Lee was appointed Honorary Champion by the WBC in 2019 for his "brave and courageous fight against adversity".

Ellie Scotney tweeted: "Heartbreaking news to wake up to the passing of Lee Noble, fought until the final bell. Rest in perfect peace Champ."