This evening, we learned that John Cooney, a super-featherweight from Belfast, has sadly passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a bout on February 1.

The Irish boxer suffered an intracranial haemorrhage during his fight against Nathan Howells at Ulster Hall and later underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. He was, however, unable to pull through. He was just 28 years of age.

The Howells fight was stopped in the ninth round and was Cooney’s first defence of his Celtic super-featherweight title. It ended up being the only fight he lost. His pro record was 11-1 (3). 

“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," wrote Mark Dunlop, Cooney's promoter. “Mr and Mrs Cooney and his fiancée Emmaleen would like to thank staff at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital who have worked tirelessly to save John’s life, and everyone who has sent messages of support and prayers. 

“He was a much-loved son, brother and partner and it will take us a lifetime to forget how special he was. 

“RIP John 'The Kid' Cooney.”

Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace.