Ebanie Bridges has given a rare glimpse into her relationship with British boxing icon Kell Brook – after the former world champ recently revealed that she “saved his life”.
The couple went public with their relationship earlier this year when they announced the birth of their first child, Ezerra Ray.
Brook, 39, revealed last month that he had struggled for years with addiction and depression issues and that Bridges has been a central part of his recovery.
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Speaking to Fox Sports Australia, the Aussie former world champion says it was touching to hear him make such a public statement.
“It made me feel appreciated and it was just lovely to hear that, and for him to make that public,” she said.
Brook, who rarely discusses his personal life, made the comments ahead of his return to the ring in February against Eisa Al Dah, who was originally scheduled to fight the late, great Ricky Hatton.
The Manchester icon, who struggled with his own addiction and mental health issues, took his own life in September aged 46.
When pressed if she knew that she had “saved” Brook’s life, Bridges said “to a degree”.
“The way he was headed with his lifestyle, addiction and mental health issues, there was high chances he would end up like Ricky Hatton,” Bridges said.
“Everyone around him has told me that if it wasn’t for you I don’t think Kell would still be here.”
“When you pull someone out of darkness and away from the anchors of addiction, and help them build a new life, I guess it is saving them.”
The Blonde Bomber says she had the knowledge and tools to help Brook because of her own struggles with mental health issues and addiction while growing up.
“I want people [who are struggling] to understand that you’re not alone, and you can’t get better on your own,” Bridges said.
“You need help and support and to believe in yourself – and believe recovery is possible.
“Talk to people, find recovery centres and meetings. Get the help and do the work because recovery is possible and mental health problems aren’t something you should keep to yourself.”
Brook’s return to the ring will support the newly formed Ricky Hatton Foundation.
When announcing the fight, Brook said: “I have got a beautiful son, he is my pride and joy.
“I am in control of my life, I am excited, I am clear … I am happy-go-lucky.
“I do things with Ebanie and my son and see different parts of the world. I have found myself. Before, I didn’t know what was going on.
“Today I have got a purpose to live. I’m in God’s hands, and I feel in a very good place.”
Regarding Bridges, Brook added: “She got me out of that darkness. She saved my life, really and truthfully.
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“She is so armed with the knowledge and been through a lot of things herself in her own battles in life, and she has guided me to where I am today – and that is clean and sober and living a beautiful life.
“This is what is meant to be…mentally I am in the best place I’ve ever been in my life.”