THE sister of former super-bantamweight boxer Stuart McFadyen has paid tribute to her brother who died earlier this month aged 42.

McFadyen, who lived in Colne, began his professional boxing career on July 21, 2006, with a first-round stoppage win against Neil Read in Altrincham. Three years later, ‘The Burnley Banger’ fought in his 14th and final contest, beating Sid Razak on points in a four-round contest in his home town. The only loss of McFadyen’s career came against Gavin Reid in November 2007.

In his sixth bout McFadyen caused an upset beating prospect Tasif Khan on points in Wigan. And in March 2009 he held Stuart Hall to a draw over six rounds. Hall would go on to win British, Commonwealth and world bantamweight honours.

“Stuart sadly passed in his sleep,” Kirsten McFadyen told Boxing News.

“We as a family are devastated and this has left a huge hole in our lives that will never be filled. Stuart was loved so deeply and dearly and if love could have saved him, he would have lived forever.

“We will be forever proud of what Stuart achieved in such a short time, his passion and dedication to get inside the ring was inspirational, outside the ring he was a loveable rogue! We will cherish every single memory we have of him, remembering his endearing character, big cheeky smile and infectious laugh. May he rest in eternal peace until we meet again.”

A celebration of Stuart’s life will be held on Monday, November 25, at Burnley Crematorium.