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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Tributes pour in after sudden death of young Belfast boxer Dominic Oscar

A boxing club has led the tributes for young Belfast boxer Dominic Oscar following the teenager's sudden death.

St Michael's ABC in Poleglass said the whole community had been left devastated by the 19-year-old's passing on Thursday.

A Twinbrook native, Dominic had been a part of the St Michael's community for the past six years and had shown some serious potential. The teenage star won Ulster and Antrim titles during his time at the club.

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"Everyone is absolutely devastated," said Sean Ward, secretary at St Michael's ABC.

"Dominic had been with us six years and was just a smashing kid, and a very talented boxer. He was heading into the Intermediate stage and had already won Ulster and Antrim titles.

"He also got to fight in America with the Belfast-Belt Boxing Project.

"He used to play football for Celtic Boys and initially came into our gym to help with his football training. He used our facilities and took a shine to boxing and our club, and we are so glad he did.

"Joe Pollock and Gerard Murphy were Dominic's cornermen and worked with the kid.

"The whole community has been rocked by this news. It has hit everyone very hard."

St Michael's ABC described Dominic, who was affectionately known as 'Domo', as a special talent who had an "infectious smile and kind-hearted nature".

The club added in a statement posted on Facebook: "Everyone connected with the club are devastated to hear about the sudden loss of our own Dominic Oscar.

"From the moment Dominic walked into the club his infectious smile and kind hearted nature influenced all the boxers and coaches within the club and we are saddened that a young man with such huge potential has been taken way too soon.

"We express our deepest sympathies to his parents Marie and Chris, to his siblings Christopher, Darren, Aisha and Reece and anyone who knew and cared for Dominic.

"Rest easy young man."

Tributes have been pouring in since the teenager's death.

County Antrim Boxing IABA said: "Deepest condolences from all in County Antrim Boxing to the family and friends of Dominic Oscar who passed away suddenly yesterday.

"Dominic was an aspiring young boxer who had many of great wins under his belt in the sport and we send our thoughts and prayers to all.

"Special thoughts go out to all at St. Michael's ABC Poleglass where Dominic boxed, a heartbreaking time for you all. May he RIP."

Belfast Met Boxing Academy said: "Everyone at Belfast Met Boxing Academy would like to offer their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dominic Oscar who passed away suddenly yesterday.

"Dominic was an aspiring young boxer and a past Belfast Met Boxing Academy student. Thoughts and prayers to all of his Family and everyone at St. Michael's ABC Poleglass where Dominic boxed, a heartbreaking time for your all.

"Rest in peace champ."

St Paul's ABC in Andersonstown added: "St Paul's Boxing Club would like to offer their sincere condolences Chris and the entire Oscar family on the sad passing of their beloved son Dominic, may he rest in peace."

Kilwee Celts posted on Facebook: "Kilwee would like to extend our deepest condolences and thoughts with the Oscar family on the passing of Dominic.

"Dominic was highly thought of by anyone who knew him and was always a pleasure to speak with.

"Absolute gentleman at heart. You will be missed by everyone that knew you. R.I.P Mate."

Other clubs to pay tribute included Donard ABC, Saints Boxing Club, Immaculata, Sacred Heart, Gilford, Larne Golden Gloves, Dungarvan, Omagh Boys and Girls BC, Star ABC and Saint David’s Boxing Club in Naas, Kildare.

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