Northern Ireland

Barry McGuigan pays tribute to daughter Danika

Former world boxing champion Barry McGuigan with his daughter Danika in Dublin
Former world boxing champion Barry McGuigan with his daughter Danika in Dublin

FORMER boxing champion Barry McGuigan has released a heartfelt tribute to his daughter following her death.

Dublin-based actress Danika 'Nika' McGuigan died last week aged 33 following a battle with cancer.

In a tribute shared online yesterday, Mr McGuigan said Nika was "an extremely talented and inspirational young lady".

"The most difficult thing I've ever had to do was to say goodbye to my amazing daughter Nika earlier this week," he said.

"She has been a shining light in our family's lives for the past 33 years.

"Nika was an extremely talented and inspirational young lady who radiated kindness and love.

"Our hearts are broken and we know that life will never be the same again for us.

"However, Nika lives on in so many parts of our lives which we are grateful for."

He thanked people who sent flowers, cards, Mass cards and other messages of support.

"There are simply too many to answer individually so I want to use this opportunity to say a huge thank you to each and every one of you, the family greatly appreciate them," he added.