‘Selfless act’ by 15-year-old boy whose ‘fighting spirit will live on’ after his tragic death

Hundreds of people have paid tribute to a “kind and generous” boy who “saved lives” through his actions.

Alex Eastwood, 15, was a kickboxer who allegedly suffered a breakdown after a fight on June 29. Alex attended Hurricane Combat and Fitness in Fazakerley.

The teenager was rushed to hospital with a bleed on the brain and placed in an induced coma, before being transferred to Manchester Children’s Hospital for emergency surgery, but sadly died.

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After his death, Alex – who was praised as “a true warrior who always showed great talent, determination and sportsmanship” – saved the lives of seven other children by donating his organs, the school said.

In a tribute posted on a Just Giving fundraiser, Hurricane Combat and Fitness coach Ian Hollett said: “Alex was the epitome of everything we stand for at Hurricane Combat & Fitness, not only as a martial artist but also as a kind, caring, generous and loving soul .

“At only 15 years old, he has achieved so much and been loved by so many, not just at Hurricane, but across the country and even the world.”

He added: “His death is truly devastating and we are all in shock at how cruel and unjust this is. Our love and support goes out to his incredible and inspirational family at this sad time.

“The Hurricane was Alex’s happy place and kickboxing was the thing he loved and excelled the most in this world.

“Alex will live forever in our hearts and minds, but also in the lives of the seven children and their families whose lives he saved by donating his organs.”

Many have since paid tribute to Alex and his selfless actions. Commenting on the ECHO’s Facebook page, Chris Rickers said: “Truly heartbreaking. Life is so cruel sometimes, although what a brave and selfless decision by the family to donate their son’s organs, perhaps it was something the amazing young man discussed with them before his tragic death. He will live on in others and I hope this brings some comfort to the family.”

Hannah Quinn said: “I am so sorry for his family’s loss, what a selfless act of them to donate his organs and save the lives of seven others. A true hero. He lives in those he has saved.”

John Connolly said: “So sad but he achieved so much and helped so many. His fighting spirit will live on.”

Many who knew Alex personally added their condolences. Natalie Wilson said: “We are all heartbroken. The gym, “your place” where you put your bag every time, will never be the same. A champion forever.”

Josie Martin added: “Such a special young man. It’s been a privilege watching you grow up Alex. Sending love to Ste, Nikita, Jake and Frankie. Also Hurricane Combat and Fitness, which helped make him the warrior he was. Sleep tight champion.”

Lisa Musker said: “RIP Alex. He was a lovely boy, that left a huge hole in the hearts of all who knew him! Life is so cruel sometimes.”

Another tribute posted on Hurricane’s Facebook page said: “At only 15 years old he has already achieved so much and this was just the tip of the iceberg of what was to come for him. Alex was not only a true and fierce champion. Competitor, he was such a sweet kid and he was loved by so many people, not just at Hurricane, but across the country and even the world.

“Alex was a son, brother, friend, teammate, champion, but most of all, a wonderful person. We are so proud of his accomplishments, but more than anything we are proud of the person he was and the man he was becoming. The world is truly a darker place without him.”

A spokesman for the World Karate and Kickboxing Commission (WKKC) England said: “We are devastated to hear of the death of Alex Eastwood. A true warrior who has always shown great talent, determination and sportsmanship. A polite, humble and respectful young man who was loved by all who met him.

“Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and his training community at Hurricane Combat and Fitness.”

Ian Hollett, who started the fundraiser, said the money would go towards funeral costs and support for Alex’s family. You can learn more and how to donate Here.

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