In a somber turn of events, the boxing world mourns the loss of Irish fighter John Cooney, who tragically passed away a week after sustaining a brain injury during a championship match. The 28-year-old's bout against Welsh opponent Nathan Howells at Ulster Hall ended prematurely in the ninth round when Cooney was rushed to intensive care. Diagnosed with an intracranial hemorrhage, Cooney fought for his life over the following days but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. His promoters, MHD Promotions, released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound sorrow and gratitude to the medical staff at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital for their tireless efforts.

Sad Farewell to a Champion

In the crisp autumn air, the boxing community gathered in Belfast to witness what was meant to be a triumphant defense of the Celtic super-featherweight title. On that fateful Saturday evening, John Cooney stepped into the ring at Ulster Hall, ready to defend his title against Nathan Howells. However, the fight took an unexpected turn in the ninth round when Cooney was forced to retire due to visible distress. Medical professionals immediately attended to him, and he was swiftly transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital where he was diagnosed with a severe intracranial hemorrhage. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Cooney passed away after a week-long battle for survival.

Cooney had claimed the Celtic super-featherweight title in November 2023, defeating Liam Gaynor. Following this victory, he faced a prolonged recovery period due to a hand injury, only returning to the ring recently with a non-title win before facing Howells. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, with tributes pouring in from fellow fighters and fans alike. Conrad Cummings honored Cooney as a "warrior," while Liam Gaynor, who retired after his own bout with Cooney, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a formidable opponent turned friend.

The untimely death of John Cooney serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in professional sports. It underscores the importance of prioritizing athlete safety and well-being above all else. This tragic event calls for a renewed focus on preventive measures and better support systems for athletes, ensuring that they can pursue their passion without compromising their health. The boxing world will remember Cooney not only for his prowess in the ring but also for the courage and determination he displayed throughout his career.