'I whole heartedly apologise' - boxing champ Josh Taylor takes to Twitter after racially abusing bouncer at Edinburgh nightclub

Taylor said he is "ashamed about the whole incident".

Boxing star Josh Taylor has issued a statement on Twitter after admitting racially abusing a bouncer at a city nightclub.

"I whole heartedly apologise for my stupid actions," wrote the boxer, who added that he was "ashamed about the whole incident".

"I hold my hands up for making remarks which caused offence and I was rightfully found guilty of," he said.

"It has been a rollercoaster of a year for me, becoming unified world champion and on this occasion I've taken it too far," he added.

"I can only apologise, not only to those whom I offended, but to my family and friends for the upset I've caused.

"There's no excuse for the comments and the disturbance.

"I'm going to take some time off over Christmas to reflect on my actions and ensure it never happens again."

Josh Taylor.

The 28-year-old appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court yesterday, where he pled guilty to behaving in a threatening and abusive manner by acting in an aggressive manner, swearing and uttering offensive remarks at Shanghai club in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The charge was aggravated by prejudice relating to sexual orientation and race.

The court heard he referred to an Asian bouncer as being "gay looking" and a "big orange c**t" and shouted further insults at the door staff.

Police were called by club staff and Taylor was arrested and charged.

Sheriff Nigel Ross noted Taylor was "ashamed and had apologised" and fined him £350.

Taylor also thanked his family and fans for their support.

"I want to thank my family, friends and fans for their continued support over the years and can assure them I will endeavor to live up to their expectations and make them proud once more," he wrote.