Tributes pour in as Tommy Fury’s former opponent Genadij Krajevskij dies aged 37

Boxer Genadij Krajevskij, who once fought Tommy Fury, has died at the age of 37.

The Lithuanian fighter's last matchup was a fourth round defeat against Midlander Levi Vaughan in August this year.

Krajevskij had a reputation of being a 'gentleman' after winning just one of his 76 professional fights, stopped just nine times.

He was knocked out by former Love Island star Fury in the second round when the two fought in 2022.

"We would like to pass our condolences and thoughts to Genadij Krakevskij's family and friends at this time," the British Boxing Board of Control's Midlands Area Council said in a statement.

"The Baltic Bomber graced the away corner in the midlands area on numerous occasions. He was always a delight to be around in and out of the ring."

VIPBoxing Promotions also said: "It is with deep sorrow that we receive the news of Genadij Krajevskij's passing.

"We had the honour of featuring him in the VIP Shows on multiple occasions. Our videographer, Lee Hogan, was fortunate enough to capture his sole professional victory during his 68th fight on a Frank Duffin show.

"This moment was incredibly significant for him, as he conveyed the message “Never give up” to the camera. Rest in peace, Baltic Bomber."

Referee Mark Lyson added on social media: "Terrible sad news, RIP Genadij Krajevskij a true warrior, and a lovely fella."

Meanwhile, licenced boxing MC Phil Seymour said that Krakevskij was a 'great presence at fight shows up and down the country'.

Some really sad news to bring you this morning...

It was announced over the weekend that the popular journeyman Genadij Krajevskij has sadly passed away.

The Merseyside-based Lithuanian was a regular on shows across the UK having fought 76 times in his eight-year career.

Our… pic.twitter.com/HwJwnBE1P8

— IFL TV (@IFLTV) December 9, 2024

This comes after Fury's recent announcement of pulling out of his fight with Darren Till.

"I can't believe l'm writing this but I am now not fighting Darren Till on January 18th 2025," he wrote on Instagram Stories on 6 December.

"For the one simple reason being that Darren has stated over and over that he does not want to abide by professional boxing rules and that if he is losing the fight he will resort to kicking and other stupid MMA tactics.

"I am a professional boxer, I have been out of the ring for over a year and I wanted this to be a great BOXING fight for the fans. I have wasted weeks in training camp.

"We are working hard to get a new opponent and date. I promise to get a better opponent and better fight for you guys.

"Good news around the corner."