Limerick boxer Lee Reeves shows ‘little improvement’ but remains critically ill

Lee Reeves remains critically ill at Beaumont Hospital more than three weeks after he was seriously injured in a boxing bout

Candles remain by Limerick's Harvey's Quay after hundreds showed up for a “night of hope” to show support for Lee Reeves. Picture: Manon Gilbart.

The family of Limerick boxer Lee Reeves has shared an update saying they have seen a “little improvement” in his condition, but he remains critically ill.

Family friend and former boxer Jonathan O’Brien was asked by the family to share an update with the public, as Mr Reeves has been hospitalised for more than three weeks. Mr O’Brien, who also set up a fundraiser for his friend, shared the update on social media.

Lee Reeves’ father, Tony, said there had been a “little improvement” in his son’s condition, as he asked him to “open his eyes and after five seconds Lee opened them three-quarters”. His father said he also responded when asked to shake his hand.

Mr Reeves, 31, from Roxboro, was stretchered from the ring after a heavy knockout defeat at Dublin’s 3Arena on August 1 and rushed to hospital, where he underwent surgery before being placed in an induced coma.

Since then, his condition has remained critical but stable.

Family remains by boxer’s side 

He continues to be monitored by staff at Beaumont Hospital, as his family remains by his side.

Two weeks ago, Mr Reeves underwent another procedure.

Earlier this month, hundreds attended a “Night of Hope” at Harvey’s Quay in Limerick city to show their support for Mr Reeves.

The community event was organised by Limerick Treaty Suicide Prevention, a group with which Mr Reeves volunteers.

Crowds heard how the young boxer has “helped save lives” and “made a difference” in the community.

Since news of his hospitalisation broke, there has been an outpouring of support for the Limerick boxer, with more than €108,000 raised online.