In a shocking turn of events, Douglas ‘Dougie’ Joyce, a 35-year-old bare-knuckle boxer from a renowned traveller family, has been jailed for 19 months following a violent assault on a 78-year-old man. The incident, captured on CCTV, occurred in the back room of a Manchester pub, leaving the elderly victim with serious injuries.
Background of the Attacker:
Douglas Joyce is a well-known figure in the traveller community, coming from a family featured in an Amazon documentary, “The Joyce Family Documentary.” He has also amassed a significant following on YouTube, with over 26,000 subscribers, where he posts training videos and promotes his fights.
Details of the Incident:
The attack unfolded when Joyce, after following the elderly man through the pub, unleashed a series of brutal punches to the man’s face, exacerbated by a large gold ring he wore. This left the victim seriously injured and bleeding. Joyce’s aggressive behaviour continued as he stood over the victim, shouting and pointing in a threatening manner.
Extravagant Lifestyle and Public Persona:
Joyce, who married last year in a lavish ceremony at Gorton Monastery in Manchester, had planned to arrive at his wedding, costing £60,000, in a helicopter but was barred due to venue restrictions. His wedding featured four Rolls Royces and a £12,000 Calla Blanche dress. Footage of the wedding was shared on his YouTube channel.
Legal Consequences:
Joyce pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and was sentenced by Manchester Crown Court. Greater Manchester Police highlighted the severity of the attack, with Detective Constable Natalie Hollows describing Joyce as an “aggressive and violent man.
Impact on Joyce’s Career and Family:
The sentencing is a significant blow to Joyce’s boxing career and his role as the founder and president of 3D Fight Club, a bare-knuckle boxing and MMA organization. His father, John Joyce, 63, was also sentenced to an 18-month community order for his involvement in the assault.
Statement from the Police:
The Greater Manchester Police emphasized the seriousness of Joyce’s actions and the injuries inflicted on the victim. They expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, hoping it would serve as a period for Joyce to reflect on his actions.
