Devastated boxer Charles Conwell writes emotional letter to opponent Patrick Day as he fights for his life
DEVASTED boxer Charles Conwell has written an emotional letter to his injured opponent Patrick Day as he fights for his life following their super welterweight bout in Chicago.
Day, 27, is in a coma and “extremely critical condition” after suffering a serious brain injury during the bout on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk’s debut heavyweight fight.
He had to be stretchered from the ring before he was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for surgery following the brutal 10th-round knockout.
American compatriot Conwell has now posted a letter on social media to explain his thoughts after the fight alongside the hashtag #champpatrickday.
The 21-year-old wrote: “I never meant this to happen to you. All I wanted to do was win.
“If I could take it all back, I would. No-one deserves this to happen to them.
“I replay the fight over and over in my head thinking what if this never happened and why did it happen to you.
“I can’t stop thinking about it myself. I prayed for you so many times and shed so many tears because I couldn’t even imagine how my family and friends would feel.
“I see you everywhere I go and all I hear is wonderful things about you.
“I thought about quitting boxing but I know that’s not what you would want.
All I wanted to do was win. If I could take it all back, I would
Charles Conwell
“I know that you were a fighter at heart so I decided not to, but to fight and win a world title because that’s what you wanted and that’s what I want so I’ll use you as motivation every day and make sure I leave it all in the ring every time.”
The 2016 Olympian signed off with “#ChampPatrickDay. With compassion. Charles Conwell.”
Day’s coach Joe Higgins later replied to the post saying: “Thank you for your kind words. Patrick was born across the street from me so our relationship is special.
“He would have wanted you to continue. I’m am rooting for you to reach your dream, the same one he had.
“I too am distraught because I feel responsible but do realise there is no fault. Stay strong and please don’t think we blame you.”
Several boxing figures have also spoken highly of Day’s character and bright personality since the knockout.
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Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn wrote: “Our thoughts and deepest prayers are with Patrick Day and his family right now. We have been in constant communication with his promoter Lou DiBella, who will provide further information at the appropriate time. Please keep Pat in your thoughts.”
Super feathweight boxing champ Gervonta Davis added: “Damn man praying for Patrick Day.”
Respected trainer and analyst Teddy Atlas posted: “A special kid, Patrick Day, is hurt and needs our thoughts and prayers. We’re with you, Patrick. And we won’t give up.”