The man denies murdering Tyson Fury’s cousin Rico Burton, 31, after he was stabbed outside a bar

A MAN today denied murdering Tyson Fury’s cousin in a stabbing attack outside a bar.

Rico Burton, 31, was stabbed to death in a “bloodbath” at 3am in Altrincham, Greater Manchester in August.

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A 17-year-old man believed to be a relative suffered significant life-changing injuries.

Liam O’Prey, 21, appeared at Manchester Crown Court today to deny a charge of murder.

He also pleaded not guilty to intentionally hurting the teenager.

O’Prey, wearing a gray sweater, admitted possession of a bladed object and possession of cocaine.

He was remanded in custody ahead of a preliminary hearing date on February 6 next year.

Ex-youth boxing star Rico had watched Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk fight with friends on August 20 before moving to another pub in leafy Altrincham.

Early the next morning, rescue workers were rushed to the Goose Green area after a fight allegedly broke out.

Rico was taken to the hospital but unfortunately could not be saved and was pronounced dead shortly after.

Officers arrested O’Prey and a 20-year-old man on suspicion of murder following the horror.

The second suspect was released on bail pending investigation.

Fury previously called on the government to “impose higher penalties for knife crimes” after his cousin was “stabbed in the neck”.

The heavyweight boxing champion wrote on Instagram: “My cousin was murdered last night, stabbed in the neck.

“This is getting ridiculous… Idiots carry knives. That has to stop.”

He added: “As soon as possible, the UK government needs to introduce increased penalties for knife crimes.

“It’s a pandemic and you don’t know how bad it is until you have one yourself.

“Life is very precious and can be taken away from you very quickly. Enjoy every moment.”

Steve Egan, 60, head trainer at Jimmy Egan’s Boxing Academy where Rico trained, described him as a “lovely boy” and a “fantastic boxer”.

He added, “We are all devastated.”

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