A GOODWICK boxer who was told he would never be able to play sport again was last week crowned Welsh ABA lightweight champion, writes Simon Carr.

Chris O'Sullivan, of 2 Heol-y-felin, was 21, and training for the Commonwealth Games when he was involved in a horrific car accident in July 2003, which left him with a broken neck and a severely damaged knee.

Doctors told the talented sportsman that he would never be able to compete again and, for the first six weeks, he was unable to get out of bed.

However, after exhaustive medical tests doctors said the determined fighter could return to the ring and Chris immediately started training with his sights set on claiming a title.

In his third fight since the accident he fought titleholder Jamie Evans, in Newport, comfortably winning on points.

He has also returned to football, playing right wing for Haverfordwest County.

His trainer, Graham Brockway, said: "We always knew how good Chris was and that he had what it takes to become a champion but to come back from an injury like this, he has shown more determination than any fighter I know.

"I don't know whether his future will include the Olympics, the Commonwealth Games or whether in a year or so he may want to turn professional but he has shown he can achieve anything if he wants it enough."

During his recovery Chris watched his older brother Wayne, 27, take the Welsh ABA middleweight title.

Chris, now 23, said: "I was really happy for him and it gave me something to aim for.

"Coming back from my injury was definitely the hardest fight of my life, two years ago I never thought I would be standing here as a Welsh champion."

Chris is sponsored by the Ship and Anchor, the Hope and Anchor and Bay Hotel.