Boxer who died in car crash aged just 16 was 'phenomenal' prospect, says coach
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By Conor Gogarty
Devastated relatives have paid tribute to a teenage boxing talent who died in a car crash at the age of 16.
Jesse Johnson was in a blue Vauxhall Corse hat crashed into a dry stone wall in Cheltenham at around 11.45pm.
He was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford for treatment but died in the early hours of this morning from injuries sustained in the collision.
The car’s two other occupants, aged 15 and 16, were treated for minor injuries.
A family spokesman said they are awaiting reports from the police about the exact circumstances of the crash but paid tribute to the popular young man who dreamed of becoming a professional boxer.
(Image: GloucestershireLive WS)
“We still can’t believe it, it doesn’t feel real,” said the family member who grew up with the young man and thought of him like a brother.
“He was such a kind and giving person, it’s hard to believe he’s gone so soon. Sixteen is far too young. It's such a waste of a life.
“Jesse loved his boxing. All he ever wanted to do was box and as soon as he walked through the door he’d start to shadow box.
"He could not get enough of it and was due to fight a match in a few weeks time.
"He lived for his boxing and he was really good at it. He’d come in after boxing, jump straight in the bath and then we ‘d watch a film to relax."
But Jesse was also a typical typical young lad who also liked dressing up and going out with his friends.
The spokesman said he loved his clothes and would come back from shopping trips with clothes by labels such as Boss, Armani and Calvin Klein.
“Whenever he walked through the door, you’d know he was there," said the family spokesman. "He didn’t want to be centre of attention but he’d stand out because he was always asking questions. He was curious, interested in other people and liked a laugh.
"He would do anything to help me. He was one of the best people I knew and we are all going to miss him.”
His trainer described Jesse as a “phenomenal” boxing talent.
Pat Lewis trained Jesse — as well as his brothers Lammie, 17, and Ricky Jnr, 14 — at Cheltenham Boxing Academy, on Battledown Industrial Estate, over the last two years.
Pat said: “I couldn’t believe it when I heard. It was absolutely devastating. I was training him on Monday.
“I was very, very close with him and his brothers. They are part of the club’s family.
“Jesse was one of the most exciting young talents out there. He was a phenomenal prospect.
“He was a speed merchant with a bit of the Amir Khan about him. He was fast and furious, a beautiful boxer with dancing feet.”
Jesse, who trained at the club for 12 hours every week, won both of his two official fights.
The light welterweight had ambitions to become a professional boxer.
Pat said: “He wasn’t just good, he was a brilliant boxer. He was looking ahead big time.
“I have 27 fighters, and he was in what I call my Premier League of fighters. He and Lammie were in my elite group.
“I said to his dad he would go professional no problem. He had the potential to go pro because he had the discipline.
“He was never late and he was the first one in. He was a superbly nice lad. Everyone loved him here.”
The Cheltenham Boxing Academy coaches published a tribute to the young fighter on Facebook today.
It reads: "Woke up this morning to tragic news that JJ, as I call him, aka Jesse Johnson, has left us.
"It's a crying shame to lose such a young life - even more so a life that had great potential to be a top top boxer with such a bright future ahead and grow up to be a great man.
"I was only saying to his brother Jugger on Saturday the hopes I have for him and Stash Johnson in their boxing careers.
"Our boxing family and club are devastated by his passing. His dad Ricky always says he moans if he's late getting here to the club he's that keen to get here - he loved it that much.
"His smile and mannerisms were a joy to be around, such a polite, kind and gentle young lad who will be greatly missed by all at Cheltenham Boxing Academy.
"Our Condolences to his mum and dad and all of his family, our thoughts are with you. From Pat, Caz & family, and all of the club members."
Jesse had been set for a bout against a Gloucester City ABC fighter on October 27.
Also paying tribute to Jesse was Shauna Longstaff, who lives in North Shields. She said: "RIP little cousin Jesse Johnson my love and thoughts are with my Cheltenham family.
"My heart is breaking for you all."