Former world champion Adonis Stevenson is "awake" and healing from the injury suffered in a loss at the start of the month, according to his girlfriend.

The 41-year-old underwent surgery following a knockout loss to Ukrainian Oleksandr Gvozdyk in Quebec City on December 1.

Stevenson, who lost his WBC and lineal light-heavyweight titles, was said to be in a medically induced coma after the fight.

In a statement released on Saturday, his girlfriend – Simone God – said Stevenson was recovering.

"Despite recent reports being leaked to media, I wanted to clarify that Adonis is awake," she said.

"He is healing from his injury in the private company of his family and his dedicated medical team.

"Adonis is a world champion in the ring and is exhibiting that same grit, strength and determination in his recovery.

"Adonis and our family are so thankful to you all for your love and support and respectfully ask to continue to grant Adonis and our family privacy as he heals from his accident.

"With the holidays here, Adonis is spending time enjoying music and spending time with Adonia and his family and sends his love and appreciation to you all."