Michael Watson suffered near-fatal injuries in his rematch with Chris Eubank in 1991; Arsenal held a benefit day in 1993 for the boxer who has since made an inspirational recovery, completing the London Marathon and earning an MBE
Wednesday 19 April 2023 17:27, UK
Former boxing champion Michael Watson made an emotional return to Arsenal football club, 30 years after the team held a benefit day to help his remarkable recovery.
Watson suffered near-fatal injuries in his rematch with Chris Eubank in 1991 and required a wheelchair to enter the pitch at Highbury in 1993, but the 58-year-old strode out in front of fans at The Emirates, 30 years later, to voice his support for his beloved team.
The two-time Commonwealth champion has become an inspirational figure throughout sport after teaching himself to walk, speak, read and write again, despite a series of brain operations and a long spell in intensive care.
Watson completed the London marathon over six days in 2003, an incredible feat, and a year later he was awarded the MBE by Queen Elizabeth II for services to disability sport.
In 2017, Watson was the victim of a carjacking, suffering physical seizures following the incident, but he continues to defy expectations with his inspiring recovery.
"It was so overwhelming [to receive an MBE], Watson told Sky Sports, when he appeared on Sky Sports News last September.
"I'm in the best form and shape ever. I feel great.
"I'm training every day. I'm in the gym, working out on the pads, and I feel absolutely fantastic."
