Mr Montague trained young boxing hopefuls in the city

Joe Montague, 64, was killed shortly after midnight on Sunday as he parked his Ford Ka outside his home in the Foleshill area of the city following a visit to see his daughter Joanne, who suffers from multiple sclerosis.

Police confirmed on Monday the married grandfather had died of several gunshot wounds to the head.

Colleagues of the former boxing champion, who was known for training new talent, said they were horrified by his death.

'Phone calls'

He was at the boxing arena in Coventry on Saturday where he is believed to have had a row on his mobile phone with someone.

Mr Montague was deliberately targeted Chief superintendent Stephen Dugmore

Colleagues said they had no idea why he was killed.

Boxing promoter Kevin Houston said: "Joe had a couple of phone calls and went off and we didn't know why and we haven't seen him since.

"Everyone is very, very distraught at the moment."

Open mind

Boxer Andy Halder, who was trained by Mr Montague, said: "Tuesday night's fight is going to be dedicated to Jim Montague and his memory and we will be having a minute's silence."

Police are still unclear on the motive for the shooting

Among Mr Montague's other charges were Neil Simpson, the former British and Commonwealth light-heavyweight champion, who lost a title fight against Nigerian Peter Oboh in March.

Chief Superintendent Stephen Dugmore, from West Midlands Police, said: "Mr Montague was deliberately targeted. It was very personal."

'Real gentleman'

He said police were keeping an open mind about possible motives and following several lines of inquiry, including within the boxing community.

Mr Montague's friend and neighbour Roseann Botton described him as a kind man who was devoted to his family.

"Joe was a real gentleman and cared so much about his family, particularly one of his daughters, Joanne, who suffers from multiple sclerosis," she said.