Billy Dib update delights boxing world amid battle against cancer

Aussie boxing icon Billy Dib has received an outpouring of support after taking to social media to share the incredible news that he is free of cancer. Dib's cancer announcement rocked the fight world in October when he revealed that doctors had found a cancerous tumour growing inside him, declaring at the time: "Cancer has picked the wrong opponent. I have too much to live for."

Having undergone surgery to remove the tumour the 37-year-old Sydneysider - who lost his first wife to leukaemia in 2016 - has now revealed that he has gone into remission. Dib shared the news in a social media post that contained a video of his son Laith dancing with delight while holding a sign that reads: “Hi guys, my dad is in remission.”

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Dib accompanied the video with a message expressing his relief and gratitude to his legion of supporters. The former world champion - who held the IBO super-featherweight title in 2008 and the IBF featherweight belt in 2011 - described his latest prognosis as the "most beautiful" news he could receive.

“AlhamdAllah (thanks to God), I received the most beautiful news today. My scan came back clear of cancer. I am so grateful, blessed, happy and relieved. Thank you God, my health team, my family and all of you, for your prayers, encouragement and support to help me get here.”

Dib's announcement saw a wave of messages flood in from across the boxing world as fans celebrated his amazing news. Boxing journalist Dan Rafael wrote: “I am thrilled for you. Wish you nothing but the best.” Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn said: “That is the greatest news Billy.”

Olympic boxer Tony Jefferies added: “Wow this is amazing, ️well done mate," while Main Event commentator Ben Damon wrote: “Fantastic news from @BillyDib who is now cancer free!”

Tim Tszyu's touching gesture for Billy Dib

Aussie boxing champion Tim Tszyu reacted to Dib's announcement by extending an invitation for the 37-year-old to sit ringside for his WBO title fight against American Tony Harrison on Sunday. “It’s not just for Billy Dib the boxer, it’s because of the person he is," Tszyu said to Fox Sports.

“Billy has such a kind heart. Has always been there to support me. So if he wants to come this Sunday I want to have him there.”

Dib described his cancer diagnosis in October as the "one of the most frightening situations" he has ever faced, and praised his brother and doctor for taking his concerns seriously. Dib was initially sent home from hospital with painkillers after complaining of intense stomach pain, before seeking out a second opinion when the issue did not go away.

"Despite sharing the ring with some dangerous opponents in my career, this is one of the most frightening situations I have found myself in," Dib wrote in a Facebook post at the time. "I am so grateful that they took my pain so seriously and together with my brother Mohammad and Dr. Pham I am grateful that they took action which saved my life."

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