Boxer Nick Blackwell has woken from his coma

The 25-year-old former British champion at no stage required an operation after he was found to have a bleed on the skull, and after staff at London's St Mary's hospital gradually reduced his sedatives, he woke on Saturday and was able to speak to his family and friends on Sunday.

"It was the outcome everyone had been hoping and praying for; Nick had won his toughest fight yet," read a statement released by Hennessy Sports.

"On behalf of Nick, his family, and very close friends, we'd like to thank everyone for their continued support and well-wishes. It has been overwhelming at times and has certainly not gone unnoticed.

"Nick Blackwell won the hearts of over three million (television) viewers on March 26 (in a 10th-round stoppage defeat by Eubank Jnr) with an astonishing display of all-action bravery and determination.

"In the past week, however, he has humbled millions more. He's a fighter. He's a warrior. He's a true champion and gentleman."