Bradman Best and Ben Damon react to Jeff Fenech’s hospitalization

Australian boxing icon Jeff Fenech remains hospitalized with a heart issue, prompting an update from his son-in-law, rugby league player Bradman Best, who told reporters in Queensland on Thursday that the four-time world champion is a fighter who will pull through.

Jeff Fenech Is Hospitalized with Breathing Issues

Fenech was admitted to the hospital 10 days ago after falling unwell with breathing issues and fatigue, nine.com.au reported. The 62-year-old boxing legend has not spoken publicly on his health, but nine.com.au contacted him for comment.

Best, who is preparing to make his Test debut for the Kangaroos against Fiji on Sunday, visited Fenech last week. Speaking to reporters in Queensland on Thursday, Best stated that his father-in-law remains tough.

“Jeff has done a lot for me in my career. I was visiting him last week and he’s always giving me tips on what to do and how to be better. I’m thinking of him,” Best said.

Best emphasized the personal and professional impact of his relationship with the boxing great. “It’s special having a father-in-law like that who’s a four-time world champion,” Best added. “He’s an icon in Australia, and it’s special having a bond like that with him. He’s been massive for me.”

Cardiac History Affects Tim Tszyu Training

This latest admission marks the third major cardiac intervention for Fenech over the past seven years. In 2019, he underwent emergency surgery while on holiday in Thailand. In 2024, doctors performed a second procedure to replace a leaking, infected valve in his heart.

Fenech’s current hospitalization has created uncertainty regarding his preparation of boxer Tim Tszyu for an upcoming world-title fight in late November against Erislandy Lara. Basil Nassis has stepped in to run training while Fenech remains under medical care.

Fenech Awaits Test Results to Return to Camp

Main Event commentator Ben Damon, a close friend of Fenech, told Fox Sports that the trainer remains highly focused on returning to Tszyu’s camp as soon as possible. Damon noted that Fenech is currently awaiting his latest test results to determine the next steps in his recovery.

“We know how serious things were in 2019 and 2024, but Jeff won those fights emphatically and now, like then, Jeff knows he has the support not only of all of Australia but also the entire boxing world who have been reaching out since this situation became public,” Damon told Fox Sports. “Given his recent health history … he’s in the right place in hospital. We all know about his fighting spirit, so there is little doubt he will be ok.”

Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.