Liam Smith Faces GBH Charge After Alleged Attack on Concierge Worker

Liam Smith Faces GBH Charge After Alleged Attack on Concierge Worker

by

Former world champion boxer Liam Smith appeared at Manchester Crown Court facing a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent following an alleged attack on a concierge worker at a Deansgate tower block, and Judge Tom Gilbart adjourned the case to November 28.

Liam Smith

The 38-year-old fighter, who held the WBO title from 2015 to 2016, was not asked to enter any pleas during the brief appearance at Manchester Crown Court to face a single charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Liam Smith Charged with Grievous Bodily Harm 🥊

Laurent Nke sustained serious facial injuries and spent time in hospital following the altercation stemming from an alleged incident on 13 September involving a concierge worker at The Blade tower block on Silvercroft Street in Deansgate.

Judge Addresses CCTV Footage

Part of the footage shows the defendant deliver two strikes to the head of somebody lying on the floor who’s unable to stand, Judge Tom Gilbart stated in court during the hearing addressing CCTV footage capturing the incident. The judge added that the cameras also allegedly recorded Smith pushing past people to resume the incident, punching someone on the floor.

Judge Gilbart adjourned the proceedings until 28 November, instructing the fighter to be ready to enter his pleas on that date. A provisional trial date was fixed for the week commencing 15 March 2028.

Bail Conditions and Career Background

Smith now resides in Formby, Sefton, having previously been based in Liverpool, and the fighter, whose nickname is ‘Beefy’, was granted bail with specific conditions. He must not contact Laurent Nke or enter Manchester unless attending court or meeting with his solicitor.

Smith was scheduled to make a comeback fight against local fighter Ilari Kujala in Finland on 4 September, but pulled out due to a calf injury according to reports. Smith’s career includes high-profile bouts against Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and two fights against British rival Chris Eubank Jr. He defeated Eubank in January 2023 before losing the rematch eight months later.

More on Liam Smith

Related reading

Read next