Monday 22 December 2014 15:33, UK
Anthony Crolla has vowed to return to the ring next year after a brutal attack left his career in the balance.
The 28-year-old Manchester lightweight was left with a fractured skull and broken ankle after chasing two men who had broken into a neighbour’s house last week.
His world title fight against Richard Abril on January 23 was scrapped as a result of his injuries and his trainer Joe Gallagher admitted he was unsure whether Crolla would be able to box again.
It'll be a tough road back but I promise that I will be back stronger than ever in 2015.
But Crolla, who has now left hospital, took to Twitter on Sunday night to thank people for their support and promised to "be back stronger than ever in 2015".
He said: "I can't thank everyone on here enough for all the messsges of support. Honestly taken back by them all, they've meant the absolute world to me and my family.
"I'm devastated over what happened and having to pull out of my fight but I've got a lot to be thankful for as I'm a very lucky man.
"It'll be a tough road back but I promise that I will be back stronger than ever in 2015. Thanks so much again."
Promoter Eddie Hearn was also in a positive mood as he tweeted on Sunday after speaking to Crolla.
"Great chat with @ant--crolla tonight - great to hear him in such good spirits," he said. "Excited for 'the comeback' - he will get his world title shot!"
Police said on Friday that a 17-year-old boy was being questioned in custody on suspicion of burglary, assault and possession with intent to supply drugs in connection with the incident.
