Tributes paid to much-loved boxer, 28, who died week after fight

The family of 28-year-old boxer John Cooney have described their “complete devastation” after his death.

His death was announced on Saturday in a statement published by his promoter Mark Dunlop, on behalf of the Cooney family and his fiancee, Emmaleen. “After a week of battling for his life John Cooney has sadly passed away,” the statement said.

“Mr and Mrs Cooney and his fiancee Emmaleen would like to thank the staff at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital who have worked tirelessly to save John’s life and for everyone who has sent messages of support and prayers. He was a much loved son, brother and partner and it will take us all a lifetime to forget how special he was. RIP John ‘the Kid’ Cooney.”

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Cooney, from Galway, had been treated at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital after his defeat to Welshman Nathan Howells at the Ulster Hall last Saturday. A statement on Monday said that Cooney, who was born in London and had trained in Manchester, was in intensive care.

The bout, Cooney’s first defence of the Celtic super-featherweight title, was stopped in the ninth round. He underwent surgery after it was discovered he had an intracranial haemorrhage, also known as a bleed on the brain.

Cooney won the title with a win over Liam Gaynor in Dublin in November 2023, but spent a year out of the ring with a hand injury. He returned in October with a victory over Tampela Maharusi.

It read: “I know a few of my lot have been asking about John and I’ve been waiting to hear myself. I haven’t heard anything yet but here’s the latest update from the promoter.

Howells released a statement earlier this week praying for Cooney to make a recovery. It read: “Genuinely never wanted for any of this to happen, I just went out there to box. I wish nothing but the very best for John and his family and hope he comes home safe and sound. I don’t actually know him myself, but he seems like a really respectful and nice man.

“What I do know is he’s a fit and strong young man and he can beat this and come out the other side. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends and he will forever have my respect. We shared a ring together and the boy never once quit or looked for a way out. Get well soon mate – all the best.”