Boxer Eamonn Magee Jnr has been killed in West Belfast

Boxer Eamonn Magee Jnr was killed in West Belfast during the early hours of Saturday morning.

Magee Jnr, the son of former WBU welterweight world champion Eamonn Magee Snr, was stabbed in the Twinbrook area of West Belfast and died later in hospital from his injuries.

A 32-year-old suspect has been arrested, in the nearby Dunmurry area, on suspicion of murdering Magee Jnr.

Detective Chief Inspector John McVea from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said: "We are currently investigating the circumstances which led to the death of such a young man as Eamonn, who is a son, a brother, a partner and a friend."

Magee Jnr had followed his father into the ring and his death has sent shockwaves through the world of boxing.

IBF super-bantamweight champion Carl Frampton used Twitter to express his dismay. He said: "Absolutely terrible shocking news about Eamonn Magee Jr. May he RIP."

Olympic medallist Paddy Barnes also tweeted: "RIP young Eamonn Magee, murder by scum in Belfast last night."

Eamonn Magee Snr was known as the Terminator during his professional career, and he also enjoyed Commonwealth success. Among his most high-profile fights was the 2002 sell-out bout against ex-world champion Ricky Hatton in Manchester.

Since retiring he has worked as a trainer at the well known Breen's Gym in Belfast.