TROWBRIDGE boxer Nick Blackwell has emerged from his coma in a London hospital, it was revealed today.

'Bang Bang' Blackwell had been placed in an induced coma after collapsing following his British middleweight title defeat to Chris Eubank Jr at Wembley Arena on Saturday, March 26, but finally woke on Saturday and, 24 hours later, was talking to family and close friends, who were at his bedside

Contrary to early reports, his bleed was outside the brain – on the skull – and was minor enough for there to be no need to operate.

The 25-year-old had been in an induced coma for almost seven days at St Mary's Hospital, with the sedatives used gradually reduced over this period of time.

A statement from his promoters Hennessy Sports said: "At the weekend, Nick woke from this induced coma, acknowledged the voices of loved ones and, by Sunday, was starting to talk.

"It was the outcome everyone had been hoping and praying for; Nick had won his toughest fight yet.

"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.''