The unknown role the Aberdeen star played in the Scottish boxer’s recovery from the health crisis

SLOBODAN RUBEZIC is known for his tough personality in the park.

But off the pitch, the Aberdeen star is overall more compassionate.

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The Dons defender is 1.80 meters tall and has a no-nonsense approach to the game. Hard tackling and aerial strength are the main factors of his playing style.

But when he saw his boxing mate Gregor McPherson hit by a collapsed lung, he was one of the first to offer words of encouragement and support.

The couple met when Rubezic took some boxing lessons at the BodBox gym in Aberdeen, where McPherson Trains.

They had trained together Summer as McPherson prepared for him next Fight against Michael Mooney in Glasgow.

But a major blow for the fighter was that he suffered a collapsed lung for the SECOND time in history Space of 12 months.

It meant McPherson, who is 6-0 record in the professional ranks so far, had to postpone that battle against Mooney to undergo an emergency operation.

Rubezic, who experienced Injury Feeling distressed himself during a four-month layoff due to a knee problem last season, McPherson quickly called for reassurance and advice.

“After my lung injury I got a few calls from Rubi as we are good friends,” he told the Press and Journal.

“He comes to the gym once or twice a week and works hard.

“Rubi looked after me.

“He knows what it’s like to build momentum only to have it suddenly stopped by an injury.

“Rubi, however, has a good attitude to look forward.

“Hopefully he keeps his momentum going football.”

McPherson himself is aiming to return to action at the end of November.

He is due to fight on the undercard of fellow Aberdonian Dean Smith to defend his own Celtic Super welterweight title at Beach Ballroom in Aberdeen.

McPherson continued: “It was so frustrating because I had built up so much momentum after going 6-0.

“I had a good time win against a decent opponent and we started to make up places.

“Then what happened to my lungs.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring after this injury that sidelined me for six weeks.

“The time off was hard because I was only allowed to leave go.

“I went for walks as often as I could to clear my head and also went to the gym to help the amateurs.

“Social media is full of kind messages from people hoping I get well soon.

“People even came to my station hospital to see how I was doing.

“It meant a lot to me and I’m so grateful for their support.”

And beyond that, McPherson wants to fight for a title of his own next year.

He said: “My focus is on the Beach Ballroom fight.

“But hopefully I’ll have a title shot in 2025, that’s the plan.”

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