Boxer's attack conviction quashed

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Former world boxing champion Eamonn Magee has won an appeal against his conviction for head-butting a man in north Belfast.

Last month Mr Magee, 38, was ordered to serve three months for the assault outside the Ardoyne Kickhams GAA club.

However, it was revealed on Tuesday the alleged victim, Kevin McLaughlin, had withdrawn his complaint.

The boxer had denied the assault, claiming to have been attacked by up to 15 people following a row at the club.

As Mr Magee's appeal was due to get under way the court was told Mr McLaughlin was withdrawing his complaint and wanted no further action taken against him.

Prosecutors applied for an order to have him brought to the hearing.

But Judge Denise Kennedy said: "I'm very doubtful whether a bench warrant is the appropriate way of dealing with an injured party who has indicated they are not prepared to give evidence."

After asking if the prosecution wanted to continue with the case without Mr McLaughlin, she was told there was no other available evidence.

Judge Kennedy then ruled: "In the circumstances I will allow the appeal."

Magee, of Eskdale Gardens, Belfast, was known as The Terminator during a career in which he fought 33 times and held the WBU welterweight title.