Tributes have been paid across social media, and particularly in the boxing community, for Galway boxer John Cooney.
Many say they are in complete disbelief and that John was a talented boxer and pleasant person to deal with.
Irish boxer John Cooney has passed away following his match against Welsh boxer Nathan Howells in Belfast last Saturday, as confirmed by his promoter.
The 28-year-old was admitted to intensive care after the bout at Ulster Hall. His promoter, Mark Dunlop of MHD Promotions, announced his death.
The fight was halted in the ninth round, after which Cooney underwent surgery for an intracranial haemorrhage. This was his first title defense of the Celtic super-featherweight championship.
“It is with complete devastation that we have to announce that after a week of battling for his life, John Cooney has sadly passed away,” in a statement, reports RTE.
“Mr & 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.”
