Ex-boxing champion shot in smoking row

A former British heavyweight boxing champion was shot in the head at a nightclub after asking a group of men to stop smoking.

The life of James Oyebola, 47, is hanging in the balance as he remains in a critical condition in hospital.

The 6ft 9ins ex-fighter was shot in a covered courtyard area at the rear of Chateau 6 in Fulham Road, south west London.

Police said the former boxer, who won the WBC international heavyweight title in 1993, asked three men to stop smoking at the club.

One witness said Mr Oyebola asked the men to put out their cigarettes and pointed out that smoking in public places is now against the law.

The witness added: "He was just being a good citizen but the three saw it as a sign of disrespect. On their way out, one pulled out a gun and began firing at James."

Oyebola, of north west London, was shot in the head and leg and was taken to a west London hospital.

It is believed the retired boxer, known as Big Bad during his fighting career, had been working on the door of another club and visited Chateau 6 for a drink.

His attackers, described as black, fled the club on foot. A search of the area was undertaken by police, including armed officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Scott Wilson said the shooting took place shortly before 1am yesterday.

He said: "I would urge anyone with information to come forward to police and assist us in bringing those responsible for gravely injuring James to justice."

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8247 4553 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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