BOXING McClellan flies back to States

BOXING

Gerald McClellan, the American boxer who nearly died following his super- middleweight world title defeat against Nigel Benn in February, began his journey home yesterday.

McClellan, 27, of Freeport, Illinois, was taken by helicopter from the Royal London Hospital to Heathrow Airport and transferred to an air ambulance. Neither the airport nor the hospital would disclose its final destination.

A hospital spokeswoman said McClellan was conscious and breathing independently when he was discharged, but would still need continuous nursing care and will be admitted to a hospital in the United States when he arrives.

McClellan had a large blood clot removed from his brain after collapsing in the ring following his 10th-round defeat at the London Arena. Doctors have said McClellan will never fight again, but that his long-term prognosis is uncertain.