John Cooney: Boxing community ‘devastated’ by fighter’s death

Cooney was attempting to defend his Celtic super-featherweight title against Welshman Nathan Howells in Belfast’s Ulster Hall on Saturday 1 February.

The contest was stopped in the ninth round and ended in defeat for Cooney.

He was assessed by the onsite medical team in the ring before being transferred to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital.

His promoter later confirmed he had suffered an intracranial haemorrhage and needed an operation to relieve pressure on his brain.

Cooney was then treated in intensive care for several days and his loved ones paid tribute to the hospital staff who tried to save his life.

Conrad Cummings said his death was a “tragic incident” which had highlighted how dangerous the sport can be.

“He was a tough man, he gave it his all every time. I think he was 11 in a row undefeated before that fight,” he said.

Cummings described Cooney as a “warrior” in the ring but a “nice and quiet young man” in person who was humble and not into “silly talk”.

He said Cooney had the potential to “go on to big things” in the sport and he would be very much missed by his fellow fighters.

“It’s a big blow to the boxing community and he’ll be remembered greatly for the champ that he was.”