Tributes and anger over NQ boxer's death

Former professional boxer Quinton Donahue has been identified as the alleged victim of a Townsville stabbing murder.

Family and friends have taken to social media to express their sorrow at the 37-year-old's violent death on Sunday night, which has sparked a police search for a large hunting knife.

Jessie Gorman, 20, was remanded in custody on Tuesday after he was charged with the murder of Mr Donahue, a former national super featherweight champion.

Naomi Courtney took to Facebook to reveal her sadness and anger over the "tragic loss" of her nephew.

"A very talented young man, taken from us so soon," she posted.

"This should not have happened to someone like u (sic).

"We love u (sic) and will miss you always."

Mr Donahue began his boxing career as a teenager, winning five of his first six bouts to claim the Australian Super Featherweight title.

Hanlon Moungibi William wrote: "One of the most naturally talented boxers i've ever watched n trained under has passed...RIP Quinton Donahue...Can't be true...Too young to go brotha (sic)".

Mr Donahue competed in 24 professional bouts - winning seven, losing 16 and drawing one - before retiring in 2013.

He was found by emergency services on the footpath of an Ackers St property on Sunday evening.

An autopsy revealed he died of a stab wound to the chest.

Police charged Gorman with the murder of the father-of-one on Monday night.

Initial investigations show an altercation took place at a nearby shopping centre in the lead-up to the incident.

Police said the stabbing could have been over drugs.

Gorman was remanded in custody and ordered to return to the Townsville Magistrates Court on June 7.