Police Drop Julius Francis Investigation After Being Filmed Knocking Someone Out Cold
Police have dropped an investigation into ex-boxer Julius Francis who was filmed knocking out a rowdy Boxpark Wembley visitor with a single punch. You can see the incident here:
The former heavyweight boxer now works security at Boxpark and intervened after the man was seen shoving staff and hurling abuse.
In footage that has since gone viral, the man could be heard shouting: “I hope you have a heart attack, you fat ****” before pushing a member of staff.
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After attempts to remove the man from the area, 57-year-old Julius, who has previously fought Mike Tyson, knocked the man out cold with a single punch.
Following the incident, Metropolitan Police launched an investigation but have since said this has been dropped.
In a statement, the Met said: “We are aware of footage circulating on social media showing an incident involving security staff and a member of the public outside Boxpark in Wembley.
“The incident took place shortly after 17.00hrs on Saturday 11 June. Officers were called and attended the venue.
“A group had been ejected and one male customer had become involved in a confrontation with security staff.
“Officers have spoken to all parties involved and have reviewed relevant CCTV. No further action will be taken in relation to the incident involving the security guard and male customer.”
Meanwhile, Boxpark CEO Roger Wade has said he ‘stands with’ his employee.
In a post on LinkedIn, he wrote: "Woke up to a viral story about one of our security team.
"Julius Francis, is ex UK heavyweight boxing champion, he is one of the nicest people I have ever met and helps train young underprivileged kids boxing in his spare time."
Wade continued: "My understanding is that Julius and our security team spent 15 minutes stopping this man and his friends from abusing, spitting and hitting our customers and staff.
"They carefully escorted him from the premises under constant provocation and violence. Finally the person approached Julius in a confrontational manner and he defended himself.
"Acts of violence or abuse to any staff members should never be tolerated. How would you react if someone approached you violently? What would you do next if you were in my shoes? #istandwithjulius".
Wade’s comments followed an official statement from a Boxpark spokesperson who told LADbible: "Our team are aware of footage being shared online. This incident is currently under review and part of an ongoing investigation, and therefore we are unable to comment further on the incident at this time. We would like to stress that the safety and welfare of our customers and our staff is our number one priority."
Topics: UK News
Claire Reid