A MAN has today denied murdering Tyson Fury’s cousin in a knife attack outside a bar.
Rico Burton, 31, was stabbed to death in a 3am “bloodbath” in Altrincham, Greater Manchester, in August.
A 17-year-old man, believed to be a relative, suffered significant life-changing injuries.
Liam O’Prey, 21, appeared at Manchester Crown Court today to deny a charge of murder.
He also pleaded not guilty to wounding with intent in relation to the teen.
O’Prey, wearing a grey jumper, admitted possession of a bladed article and possession of cocaine.
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He was remanded in custody ahead of a provisional trial date of February 6 next year.
Ex-youth boxing star Rico had been watching the Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk fight with pals on August 20 before they moved to a different pub in leafy Altrincham.
Emergency crews were scrambled to the Goose Green area early the next morning after a fight allegedly broke out.
Rico was rushed to hospital but sadly couldn’t be saved and was declared dead shortly after.
Officers arrested O’Prey and a 20-year-old man on suspicion of murder following the horror.
The second suspect has been released on bail pending enquiries.
Fury previously called on the government to “bring higher sentencing for knife crime” after his cousin was “stabbed in the neck”.
The heavyweight boxing champion wrote on Instagram: “My cousin was murdered last night, stabbed in the neck.
“This is becoming ridiculous… idiots carry knives. This needs to stop.”
He added: “ASAP, UK government needs to bring higher sentencing for knife crime.
“It’s a pandemic and you don’t know how bad it is until one of your own.
“Life is very precious and it can be taken away very quick. Enjoy every moment.”
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Steve Egan, 60, chief coach at Jimmy Egan’s Boxing Academy where Rico trained, described him as a “lovely lad” and a “fantastic boxer”.
He added: “We are all devastated.”
