06/18/2026
British boxer Colin Cairney has died at the age of 22 after sustaining severe head injuries in a tuk-tuk accident while holidaying in Thailand.
According to reports by British media, the undefeated Scottish prospect, who compiled a 10-0 professional record, was found unconscious on a road in Phuket at around 4:10 a.m. after reportedly falling from a moving tuk-tuk following a dispute with the driver over the fare.
Investigators believe Cairney had been returning to his hotel after a night out and had arranged to withdraw cash from an ATM to pay the driver, as he was not carrying money at the time. CCTV footage reportedly showed no evidence of an assault, with police believing he fell from the vehicle rather than being pushed, suffering catastrophic head injuries.
He was initially taken to Patong Hospital before being transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for specialist treatment, where he later died.
Thai police have traced the registered owner of the tuk-tuk involved and are continuing their investigation. The driver at the time of the incident could face charges including reckless driving causing death, failing to stop and assist an injured person, and failing to report the incident to authorities.
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is assisting the family of a British man who died in Thailand.
Boxing Scotland paid tribute to Cairney, describing itself as "deeply saddened" by the death of the former Scotland international, who had represented his country at several major youth tournaments, including the European and World Youth Championships.
His club, 1314 Boxing Club, said Cairney was "more than a member of the club — he was family," adding: "There are no words that can explain this loss."
A fundraising campaign launched while Cairney remained in a coma to help cover medical expenses and other costs has raised more than £33,000.
credit: Sanook Sport
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