Australian boxing legend Shannan Taylor, the 53-year-old Bulli Blaster, faces stage-four bowel and liver cancer after a shocking symptom emerged during a routine night out on the New South Wales south coast.
The Alarming Warning Sign
Taylor experienced blood during a bowel movement at Beaches in Thirroul. He sought medical help promptly, visiting a doctor two days later. Initial blood tests showed no cancer, but family concerns prompted further checks.
His mother insisted on a second opinion, leading to the devastating diagnosis while he was already hospitalized. Taylor turned to his girlfriend Kathy, sister Kirsty, and mother Karren, declaring, ‘I’ll fight it.’ A specialist likened the battle to another title fight.
Treatment Underway
Taylor prepares for aggressive treatment, including a port insertion in his chest followed by chemotherapy starting soon. The regimen may last several weeks as he draws on his fighting spirit from past bouts, including his world title challenge against Shane Mosley in Las Vegas and a high-profile clash with Anthony Mundine.
Financial Devastation from Fraud
Compounding his health crisis, Taylor has struggled financially since 2007 due to fraud by his former promoter, convicted of property and mortgage offenses. The promoter opened a $570,000 line of credit on Taylor’s home after his final payment, leaving him broke.
‘I’ve been struggling since 2007,’ Taylor stated. ‘It’s scary. [It’s all gone] not because of anything I’ve done, it’s because of him.’
Family and Community Rally Behind Him
Taylor’s children—Chase, 18; Rush, 20; and Nathalia, 22—fuel his determination. ‘They’re my world. I’m not going to leave them here. I am definitely fighting for them,’ he affirmed. His girlfriend Kathy and mother Karren provide unwavering support, with his mother handling daily medications.
The boxing world unites in solidarity. Legends Danny Green and Jeff Fenech back Taylor, while promoter Jamie Myer organizes a fundraiser. ‘Boxers are hoping that everyone gets behind him because he has given so much to the sport over the last 30 years,’ Myer said. ‘He has been a great person, always there to help other people.’
Taylor welcomes the support: ‘It’s just unreal. It’s overwhelming that everybody is getting behind me.’
