Pray for Joe Gallagher

[a force]

Horrible news, hope he beats it.

Unfortunately, if it's stage four you don't beat it.

Best wishes to him.

I searched online & it said around a 10% chance for stage 4. I don’t know how accurate that is. Gutted for him.

[stujones]

Horrible news, hope he beats it.

Unfortunately, if it's stage four you don't beat it.

Best wishes to him.

I searched online & it said around a 10% chance for stage 4. I don’t know how accurate that is. Gutted for him.

My mum beat it, so it can be done(20 years now post any last cancer, although her health and Q of L is still pretty shocking) but was incredibly fortunate (if you can say those words) is that on the second organ it had spread too it hadn't spread any further and doctors could manage to wip it out the cancer on the primary and secondary organ. Actually just had surgery and lots of scans, but no chemo was needed at any stage. In someways, when it did return in 2004, at an very early stage she elected to remove the lymph nodes which is a source of spread.

Has lived with major health consequences all her life since the first dose of the stage 4, but probably her health consequences have possibly reduced the likilhood of it return massively. They say "don't feed the cancer", well her diet means it is hard to feed the cancer.

Bowel to Liver to a very common Stage 4 cancer. Unfortunately it was the one my dad head and he is not a survivor. What Joe does have on his side is relative youth, which is IMO very important.

[SeanBrennan]

Very sad news. Poor poor man. I sincerely hope he beats it. I’ll be taking some time off the forum as I took my mother to A n E yesterday after a fall with a suspected stroke and she has 7 brain tumours and is riddled throughout her body. Life is short, and cruel and we spend too much time focusing on the immaterial. Take care everyone and speak soon.

[JC]

Unfortunately, if it's stage four you don't beat it.

Best wishes to him.

I searched online & it said around a 10% chance for stage 4. I don’t know how accurate that is. Gutted for him.

My mum beat it, so it can be done(20 years now post any last cancer, although her health and Q of L is still pretty shocking) but was incredibly fortunate (if you can say those words) is that on the second organ it had spread too it hadn't spread any further and doctors could manage to wip it out the cancer on the primary and secondary organ. Actually just had surgery and lots of scans, but no chemo was needed at any stage. In someways, when it did return in 2004, at an very early stage she elected to remove the lymph nodes which is a source of spread.

Glad to hear your Mum made it through, Stu. We lost a couple of people to cancer in the last couple of years and my understanding from that was that once it was stage four it would't ever fully go. But good to hear it can happen.

Again best wishes to Gallagher and Dirk also.

[Dirk Kelly]

I’m a year ahead of him on this journey. My best wishes goes out to him and his family. Stay strong. stay positive. Be belligerent and don’t let it win! Fcuk cancer.

Keep fighting mate

Cheers pal

[Dirk Kelly]

I’m a year ahead of him on this journey. My best wishes goes out to him and his family. Stay strong. stay positive. Be belligerent and don’t let it win! Fcuk cancer.

Soldier on, Dirk!

Cheers pal

[Dirk Kelly]

I’m a year ahead of him on this journey. My best wishes goes out to him and his family. Stay strong. stay positive. Be belligerent and don’t let it win! Fcuk cancer.

All the best with it, fvck cancer indeed

Chers pal.

[coneye]

Take my hat of to the man , Cancer is a prick, but he has;nt curled up in a corner feeling sorry for himself , he shown why he produces great fighters because he's a fighter himself , he's carried on doing what he does best , doing what he obviously loves too do ,and doing what he great at . All the best

[NoScoutingReports]

All the best, Joe. Keep fighting sir.

[Fray Bentos]

I met Joe Gallagher years ago at Champs Camp - he was a nice and friendly guy who kept me going on this neverending stair machine they had he thought I was a cop because I asked him questions.

Good luck to him and that he takes this all the way! Take care.

[dan28uk]

I’m a year ahead of him on this journey. My best wishes goes out to him and his family. Stay strong. stay positive. Be belligerent and don’t let it win! Fcuk cancer.

very sad to hear keep fighting

[dan28uk]

I met Joe Gallagher years ago at Champs Camp - he was a nice and friendly guy who kept me going on this neverending stair machine they had he thought I was a cop because I asked him questions.

Good luck to him and that he takes this all the way! Take care.

hello hello hello

[Steveh583]

I’m a year ahead of him on this journey. My best wishes goes out to him and his family. Stay strong. stay positive. Be belligerent and don’t let it win! Fcuk cancer.

dirk this news has knocked me (and our mate) for 6. All the best, stay strong, and fight with all you have. Both rooting for you.

[Ruthless-RKO]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/videos/c5y03j1jg5zo

[afcpaul]

Good luck champ.

[Fray Bentos]

I’m a year ahead of him on this journey. My best wishes goes out to him and his family. Stay strong. stay positive. Be belligerent and don’t let it win! Fcuk cancer.

All the best with it, fvck cancer indeed

Chers pal.

Sorry to hear about this, Dirk, known you from the Dogghouse days - keep fighting it and indeed, fcuk cancer! Wish you the best, pal!

[Ruthless-RKO]

Joe Gallagher set to receive Medal of Honour at the Palace of Westminster

Joe Gallagher recognised for his services to sports

Joe Gallagher, the renowned boxing coach and community champion, will be formally recognised at the Palace of Westminster later this month with a British Citizen Award (BCA) Medal of Honour for Services to Recreation & Sports.

Joe’s extraordinary dedication to boxing—both at the elite level and within grassroots communities—has made a lasting impact on countless lives. This honour reflects not only his sporting achievements but also his wider social contribution.

Joseph Gallagher, from Greater Manchester is among 27 exceptional individuals to be honoured with the esteemed British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to society.
The Medal Presentation, set for Thursday 24th July, will see Joseph receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Recreation & Sports (BCAr). Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominals to commemorate their achievements.

Joe Gallagher is a well-known figure in British boxing, whose dedication has not only shaped champions but also transformed lives.

As a coach, mentor, and advocate for the sport, he has worked to elevate British boxing, training world champions, such as Charlie Edwards, Natasha Jonas, the Smith brothers, Lawrence Okolie, and guiding young amateurs towards success. His commitment to the sport extends beyond the ring: he has created opportunities for underprivileged youths, providing them with discipline, purpose, and a sense of belonging.

Gallagher’s contributions to boxing are unparalleled. He has trained numerous world and British champions, earning recognition as one of the most respected trainers in the sport. His impact extends to grassroots level, where he has nurtured young talent, ensuring that boxing remains accessible to all.

He has created a pathway for young people to turn their lives around through boxing. His gym has been a safe haven for many. He has also worked tirelessly to promote women’s boxing, helping to break barriers and elevate female fighters to world-class levels.

Joe is currently facing his toughest battle yet, being diagnosed with stage four liver and bowel cancer. Despite this, his spirit remains unbreakable and he is using his platform to raise awareness of the importance of early detection, particularly among men.

Stephanie Wood from BCA Partner One Stop commented, “This year’s medalists exemplify the incredible support within our communities, especially during challenging times. We’re honoured to partner with the BCA and play a part in recognising these exceptional individuals.”

The presentation, hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, will be attended by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia. Following the ceremony, medalists will enjoy an Open Top Lap of Honour tour to celebrate their positive impact on communities the length and breadth of the country.

[mickey1975]

The Queensbury piece on YouTube on Joe the other day was quite hard hitting. He's really going through it with his illness.

[rhino222]

Horrible news, hope he beats it.

Unfortunately, if it's stage four you don't beat it.

Best wishes to him.

I searched online & it said around a 10% chance for stage 4. I don’t know how accurate that is. Gutted for him.

Its more like a 10% chance of being alive after 5 years. but you dont beat it, it can be slowed a bit, but it will getcha in the end.

[SeanBrennan]

Unfortunately, if it's stage four you don't beat it.

Best wishes to him.

I searched online & it said around a 10% chance for stage 4. I don’t know how accurate that is. Gutted for him.

Its more like a 10% chance of being alive after 5 years. but you dont beat it, it can be slowed a bit, but it will getcha in the end.

Spot on. I have it. It is a case of managing it

[rhino222]

I searched online & it said around a 10% chance for stage 4. I don’t know how accurate that is. Gutted for him.

Its more like a 10% chance of being alive after 5 years. but you dont beat it, it can be slowed a bit, but it will getcha in the end.

Spot on. I have it. It is a case of managing it

Sorry to hear that Sean, keep battling mate. My daughter lost her husband to it about 4 year sago. he was only 42 and a positive vibrant big strong man. It KO'd him in 2 years. Once its in the liver (this is generally the place for metastases due to the portal vein) then youre in for a slow ish descent, once its in the pancreas you are screwed, and quickly.

I worked with anaesthetics in theatre for 37 years and saw many procedures aimed at delaying and removing this horrible disease.

[SeanBrennan]

Its more like a 10% chance of being alive after 5 years. but you dont beat it, it can be slowed a bit, but it will getcha in the end.

Spot on. I have it. It is a case of managing it

Sorry to hear that Sean, keep battling mate. My daughter lost her husband to it about 4 year sago. he was only 42 and a positive vibrant big strong man. It KO'd him in 2 years. Once its in the liver (this is generally the place for metastases due to the portal vein) then youre in for a slow ish descent, once its in the pancreas you are screwed, and quickly.

I worked with anaesthetics in theatre for 37 years and saw many procedures aimed at delaying and removing this horrible disease.

Thanks Rhino really appreciate it and sorry that it took your son in law.

One to make you laugh though. I was reading it and when I read it took him at 42 I was thinking “Jesus, I’m 41!”

I’m smiling through it mate and a very happy person regardless of what happens. Life is a gift.

[Ruthless-RKO]

Joe Gallagher reveals positive news in fight against cancer

“Diagnosed November and beat cancer by September,” smiled a relieved Joe Gallagher.

The Manchester coach was last year diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in his liver and bowels. To make matters worse, the tumor in his bowels was so big it had broken a wall and spread inside him.

What does the future of the 147lb division entail?

The ups and downs that followed have seen Gallagher live on a rollercoaster, all the while riding wave after wave of uncertainty but trying to be ever present for his stable of fighters.

“From getting diagnosed in November last year, we’re now in October, it’s mad to think nearly a whole year’s gone,” he added. “From Lawrence [Okolie] at Wembley [on the Oleksandr Usyk-Daniel Dubois bill] to seven weeks later with Mikie [Tallon] in Vegas, I stepped out of Wembley with Lawrence on the Saturday night, [went] under the knife on the Tuesday, and then seven weeks on from the knife I’m with Mikie Tallon in Vegas. What went on in those seven weeks, the ups, the downs, everything. It was hard. I’d already gone through the cycles of chemo, and the operation, and I managed to get everyone [in his camp] a fight in May, June, July, Lawrence was the last one, then it was like, ‘I’m ready, let’s do this. Let’s go and beat cancer. Let’s take it head on.’

“Had the operation, I was under the knife for like seven hours, and after that they said I’d be in hospital for 10 days. I was out after five. They said I’d be driving after four weeks, I was driving after four days, and my goal was to be on that plane September the 5th to be going to Vegas for Mikie Tallon. And I did everything that I could do.”

Consultants told Gallagher he would not be able to pick up from where he left off, and the first week or two he felt the doctors were right. Short walks were a struggle, and although he started pushing himself to try and get his energy levels back up his body shut down in reply and would make him drowsy and send him to sleep in defiance; telling him to slow down.

He could feel his body strain when he was trying to shout or coach and tackled mental exhaustion while his trip to Vegas hung in the balance. The week before, Gallagher still wasn’t sure if he’d be okay to fly. Then he got permission at the last minute.

The latest is that doctors removed 25 lymph nodes and sent them off for testing, with just three coming back cancerous.

“So they’re very happy,” Joe added.

“So they said there’s no further treatment. All I have to do is every six months, just go in for scans and bloods, so I literally flew myself to Vegas on Saturday on Cloud Nine.

“I went in and saw the liver consultant yesterday, they’re very happy, [and said] go and live your life, everything in moderation and I’ll go and see the bowel consultant in two weeks’ time. But what they said was, ‘Everything’s good, all we need is you to come in every six months just to check up on your scans and your bloods.’”

Gallagher had obviously been concerned that he would need radiation or further chemotherapy.

But he has learned to look after himself more. He’s been having injections for Vitamin C and D, using oxygen chambers, and learning how to give himself the best chance of recovery, down to what are the best habits to have when he flies.

Vitamin C and D injections, oxygen chambers, how to fly better, started to look after himself.

There have been battles; stent migration, vomiting episodes, having a low residue diet and he said for weeks it had felt like he’d been walking around with a weighted vest on.

But being in Vegas meant everything to Gallagher. It was not just his goal and the date he had targeted, it was being there for Tallon, too.

“I’ve had stage four cancer at the time, bowel and liver and in an aggressive form as well,” he recalled. “At the time they’re on about possibly something on my throat and that as well. “Then we got an email through seven o’clock Saturday morning, our flights were Saturday midday. We were at Manchester airport for half nine, 10 o’clock. Flew out Saturday, trained Sunday. He [Tallon] did his medicals Monday, weighed in Tuesday and fought Wednesday.

“And there was a little moment I was there on Monday with Mikie in Vegas and he was getting his bloods done and I just sat on the curb outside with a bit of sunshine. And I just thought, ‘Wow, who would have thought seven weeks ago that we did it?’ ‘We got it, do you know what I mean?’ And then Mikie, he went and put on the performance he did as well.” Gallagher knows the next two years are important and knows there is a chance it comes back but he has been hugely grateful for the support of the sport and his team at Champ’s Camp.

“I want to personally thank them all,” he said. “I think everyone has said that to me, ‘You’ll come out of this different, you’ll be a different person, different this.’ I can’t say I've come out of being different because I’m still boxing, still training, still determined, but I am more aware of you can’t waste the day. I’ve been in boxing since the age of 10 years of age, 46 years, and it’s a relationship where you have good times, you have bad times, and when that’s in any relationship, whether it be work, marriage, or anything in life, and boxing has been very good to me. I’m not going to leave boxing. I will be involved in boxing. I haven’t got to still carry on in boxing and maybe trim things down a little bit, or not [do] as much. “I’ve got a good support team around me, but [he will] be available. Like today in the gymnasium, I was talking and instructing and showing, and I’m still losing breath very quickly, and the lads could see me, my energy levels still aren’t good. I’m almost at nine weeks since, 10 weeks, and they keep saying, ‘You’re still in this 10- to 12-week period of recovery, then you have a three to six months, and along this way, you’ve got your health and you’ve got your mental side of it coming through, your physical side of it.’

“There’s a whole stream of stuff that you’ve got to deal with and overcome, and some days it could be like physical today, other days it could be mental, but I’ve not really paid attention to it mental, or ‘why me,’ ‘pity me.’

“I’m just fully focused on boxing. Boxing’s given me a place to be [during the illness], a diary, a place where I have to be, where I have to show up, what I have to do, and a purpose to give these kids who put their faith and their loyalty into achieving what I feel they can achieve.”

And there has been suffering, some of it as much psychological as physical.

“I think that the hardest part on all of it, was really the beginning when it was announced, and having to read on socials, people say, ‘Oh, poor bastard, he’ll be gone in six months,’ or ‘he’s gone in 12 months,’ or ‘gone in two years.’ ‘Stage four, and he’s fucked,’ and all that. That was hard to read, but at the same time, it was like, ‘Right, I'll-show-you-mentality,’ and that was it.”

Gallagher has had countless champions at all levels and scooped just about every accolade going. He is still ambitious and still wants more – that is what makes him Joe Gallagher – but he is also content with what he’s achieved with his fighters.

He remembers thinking months ago: “Listen, if I was only to have got six months a year, I can't be, feel angry, annoyed, the life that I’ve had, the journey that I.ve had; the ups that I’ve had, and everything else. I’ve been very privileged, and there’s lots of people that live to 90 that don’t get half the life that I’ve had, and for the kids [in the gym], I just want them to carry on with work as normal, family to carry on, and if there was anything drastic to tell them, I would tell them, and that’s how it was. Then we had the operation, and the kids just carried on as normal, day-to-day, normal, and that was it.”

Gallagher maintained a stoic disposition. He was being strong for his family and fighters, but also for his own peace of mind.

Sometimes people would ask him if he was doing okay.

He’d roll out a standard response, but then they’d ask again with a clear nod to the cancer.

“And you’re like, ‘oh, please stop with that, please don’t.’ And there were times I was walking around and I thought, ‘Please don’t no one say to me, ‘[are you] okay, today?’ Because if they do, I’m gonna go, I’ll crack, I’ll burst. These days, I will admit, I’ll walk around like that, where it was not me about myself, but it was just how you’re emotionally feeling that day, maybe, the effort that you’re putting into it [the fight], the stubbornness, and because you’re being so single-minded, that when you did stop and allow yourself to breathe for a minute, you had a rise of emotions, of what could be, and what could happen, and then when all of a sudden, you’re doing your will, and doing all that type of stuff, and who will get this, and what, it’s like, you know, this is like, a bit serious now.”

With the good news, is Gallagher planning on slowing down in the immediate future?

“At the moment, now, we’re out this weekend with Macaulay [McGowan] and Kieran [McDaid] making his pro debut, that’s the 4th, then we’ve got Josh Holmes on the 18th of October, Jack Massey 25th of October, Billy Denniz the 1st of November, Joe Cooper the 14th of November, Mikie Tallon on Benn-Eubank 15th of November, and then we’re going in three weekends in December, and I’m just looking and waiting on Lawrence at the moment, but yeah, we’re busy.”

Gallagher once again urged everyone to get checked out for illnesses, because it was only a chance decision that saw him go to the doctor.

Now all Gallagher wants to do is do what he’s used to doing and take it from there. No big decisions at present, while he’s in recovery. But the treadmill rolls on, fighters need to be trained and Joe Gallagher is there for them.

[CaptainSpacerod]

Great news, keep fighting Joe

[Ruthless-RKO]

No more treatment.