'Keeping his memory alive': Royal Navy chef steps into boxing ring in honour of murdered Levi Kent in Gosport
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Gary McEwan is not just fighting for himself, but for the memory of his brother-in-law
A serving Royal Navy chef is stepping into the boxing ring in honour of his friend who was murdered nearly three years ago.
Gary McEwan will be fighting in an Ultra White Collar Boxing event in Fareham today (April 11). Currently assigned to the Portsmouth-based destroyer HMS Daring, the sailor has committed to the challenge as a way of commemorating his brother-in-law Levi Kent.
Vital funds will also be raised for SSAFA the armed forces charity, who provide lifelong support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. “Levi meant a great deal to our family, and this is my way of keeping his memory alive while doing something positive,” said Gary McEwan. “SSAFA does incredible work supporting people in the Armed Forces community, and I’m proud to raise money for such an important cause.”
Gary has had to balance the demands of service life alongside his rigorous boxing training ahead of fight night. His efforts reflect both his professional discipline as a Royal Navy chef and his personal commitment to making a difference.
The event at Fareham Leisure Centre in Park Lane is expected to draw strong community support, coming together to honour Levi and cheer on Gary in the ring.
The 22-year-old was tragically killed in the Bridgemary area of Gosport on November 24, 2023. He was repeatedly knifed after being lured behind the shops in Nobes Avenue. His death devastated the community, which rallied around the family to raise funds for his funeral.
Brothers Tommy and Aiden West were both jailed for a combined 49 years for murder and other offences. Judge Michael Bowes KC called the attack “savage” and said both brothers were “equally responsible” for the murder which involved a “significant degree of planning”. Their mother Joanne West was sentenced to 15 months and Sarah Flynn and Liam Savage were sentenced to 12 months for assisting an offender.
Tickets are on sale for the boxing match and can be purchased here.