Barry McGuigan’s life from tragic family death to ‘unifying’ marriage as he enters I’m A Celeb

Former world champion boxer Barry McGuigan is set to join the lineup for the 2024 series of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! The upcoming season of the popular ITV show will feature celebrities like McFly singer Danny Jones, Strictly star Oti Mabuse, and TV personality Colleen Rooney, as they vie to be crowned the jungle’s new king or queen through challenging trials and tasks.

Representing the sports world in the jungle this year is 63-year-old McGuigan, who held titles such as the British and European featherweight titles during his boxing career. Since retiring from boxing in 1989, McGuigan has transitioned into a boxing manager, promoter, and pundit for networks like Sky Sports. His appearance on I’m A Celebrity will offer fans a look into his life beyond the boxing ring.

One aspect of McGuigan’s life that will likely be explored on the show is the tragic loss of his daughter, Danika, in July 2019. Danika, who battled acute lymphoid leukaemia from a young age and later pursued a career in acting, passed away at the age of 33 after a brief battle with cancer. McGuigan has spoken openly about the profound impact of Danika’s passing on him and his family, expressing that he will never fully come to terms with her death.

Despite facing personal tragedy, McGuigan’s marriage to his wife Sandra has been a source of strength and unity for over 40 years. The couple, who tied the knot in the midst of Northern Ireland’s Troubles, symbolised a peaceful coexistence as McGuigan, a Catholic, and Sandra, from a Protestant background, navigated their differences. Their marriage produced four children, including son Shane, who followed in his father’s footsteps to become a boxing trainer.

In addition to his personal life, McGuigan was involved in a high-profile legal battle with former world champion boxer Carl Frampton, whom he once managed. The dispute, which centred around alleged withheld earnings and contractual breaches, resulted in a tense courtroom drama before a settlement was reached. The fallout between the two fighters highlighted the complexities and challenges within the boxing industry.

As McGuigan prepares to enter the Australian jungle for I’m A Celebrity, viewers can expect to see a multifaceted individual with a storied past and a resilient spirit. His participation on the show offers a platform for McGuigan to share his experiences and connect with a new audience, shedding light on the highs and lows of his remarkable journey.