Irish Boxer John Cooney Dies at 28 After Brain Injury in Title Fight
Tragic Loss in the Boxing World
Irish boxer John Cooney, 28, has tragically passed away after suffering a brain injury during a title fight, his promoter Mark Dunlop announced on Saturday.
“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.” — Mark Dunlop (via Instagram)
Dunlop described Cooney as a beloved son, brother, and partner, saying, “It will take us all a lifetime to forget how special he was.”
The Fight That Led to His Injury
Cooney was defending his Celtic super-featherweight title against Welsh opponent Nathan Howells at Ulster Hall in Belfast on February 1. The fight was stopped in the ninth round, after which Cooney was immediately rushed to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital.
He underwent emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his brain caused by an intracranial haemorrhage, but despite the medical team’s efforts, he tragically passed away a week later.
His family, including his parents and fiancée Emmaleen, expressed their deep gratitude to the hospital staff for their relentless efforts to save his life.
Cooney’s Boxing Career
Cooney first claimed the Celtic super-featherweight title in November 2023, defeating Liam Gaynor. After nearly a year away from the ring due to a hand injury, he made a strong comeback in October 2024, securing a victory against Tampela Maharusi.
Tributes from the Boxing Community
The boxing world has been deeply shaken by Cooney’s passing, with tributes pouring in from fighters, promoters, and fans.
Former British boxing champion Ricky Hatton shared his condolences on Instagram:
“What a tragedy to hear of the passing of boxer @jhc_boxing after his bout a few days ago. This doesn’t happen often in our sport, but when it does, it’s so terrible. It reminds us to live every day as if it’s your last. My love & best wishes are with John & his family.”
Irish promoter and former featherweight champion Barry McGuigan also honored Cooney’s memory, calling him a “fine young boxer” and sending deepest sympathies to his fiancée and family.
Final Farewell
The loss of John Cooney is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks fighters take every time they step into the ring. His legacy as a talented and dedicated boxer will live on, and he will be deeply missed by those who knew and supported him.
RIP John “The Kid” Cooney (1996 – 2025)
