Boxing legend Michael Watson recalls hospital lows and life-changing visit from Muhammad Ali ahead of charity walk - just four days before Eubank Jr vs Benn fight week

Boxing legend Michael Watson will walk a mile through central London this afternoon in aid of I-neuro, alongside the neurosurgeon who saved his life — a deeply symbolic journey more than two decades after he suffered life-changing injuries in the ring.

Watson, 60, will be joined by Peter Hamlyn at 1pm this afternoon at Wellington Arch, walking to Horse Guards Parade. The pair are encouraging the public to walk with them, or donate to the neurological charity that has become a cause close to Watson's heart.

The timing of Watson's walk is poignant — taking place just four days before fight week begins for Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn, a bout heavy with history. 

Watson suffered severe brain injuries during his fateful 1991 fight with Eubank's father, Chris Eubank Sr. The night ended in tragedy when Watson collapsed in the ring after the final bell. 

It took two and a half hours for him to receive neurosurgical attention — a delay that nearly cost him his life.

Speaking exclusively to Mail Sport, Professor Hamlyn recalled the harrowing night Watson was brought to the Royal London Hospital.

'I don't think you can over-emphasise how seriously ill he was,' Hamlyn said. 'He was as close to death as I think anyone I've encountered has been — and he remained there for many weeks, sort of hovering at the door.

'The fact he survived that journey is remarkable. But nothing like as remarkable as the journey he had after that. Eight operations. Eight months in hospital. And when he got home, he still couldn't speak or feed himself. It took 12 long and indomitable years for him to get to the stage where he could do the marathon in 2003.'

Watson, who famously completed the London Marathon over six days in 2003 with Hamlyn at his side, says this walk is another step in that same direction— raising awareness and showing gratitude.

The 60-year-old remembers those early days vividly. 'It was really hard. I was sat there, couldn't speak, couldn't move. But, there was a moment that changed everything for me.

'I heard this voice: 'I'm the greatest, I'm the greatest.' I looked up — it was Muhammad Ali. I couldn't believe it. He grabbed my face and rubbed my cheek, pulling all these funny expressions. It made me laugh — the first noise I'd made since the coma. That was my breakthrough.'

Watson's recovery was long, but he credits the people around him — especially his mother and Professor Hamlyn — for giving him the strength to keep going.

'My mother is my hero. I wouldn't be who I am without her. She is my biggest inspiration. While Peter is the greatest encouragement to me. He got me walking. He got me through the marathon. He should be handed an award — not just for saving my life, but so many others. He's an amazing man. I'm honoured to know him.'

Hamlyn, too, paid tribute to Watson's mother, who stood by his side every single day. 'She was extraordinary,' he said. 'No matter how serious the conversation was, she'd always ask how I was, how the team was, and whether we were eating and sleeping properly.'

Wednesday's walk will mark another chapter in Watson's journey — a public show of resilience, gratitude, and hope.

For those wishing to join or donate to I-neuro, visit the following website.