Irish boxer in ICU after suffering brain haemorrhage during fight as fundraiser is set up

Galway boxer John Cooney is in intensive care in hospital after suffering a brain haemorrhage during his fight against Welshman Nathan Howells in Belfast last weekend.

Cooney was defending his Celtic super-featherweight title when he was stopped in the ninth round. Howells was announced as the winner alone in the ring as Cooney had been taken straight to Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast for treatment.

He sustained a severe brain haemorrhage and underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. 

A statement from boxing promoter Mark Dunlop on Monday said "John is currently in the intensive care unit and in the hospital's capable hands of the ICU team.

"John's fiancee Emmalean and his parents Hughie and Tina would like to thank everyone for their private messages of support and would ask that they keep John in their thoughts and prayers at this time as he faces his toughest battle."

ABOVE: Boxer John Cooney

His opponent on the night also took to social media with a heartfelt statement. He said: "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.

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"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."

A fundraiser has now been set up to help John and his family. The GoFundMe page states: "As you might be aware, John Cooney was involved in a BBBoC Celtic Super Featherweight title fight at the Ulsterhall on Saturday night

"Unfortunately through injuries suffered during the fight, he has sustained a intracranial haemorrhage of his brain and is currently fighting for his life in the Royal Victoria hospital in Belfast

"This fundraiser has been set up with the authorisation of his family and his boxing manager and all funds raised will go directly to the family to help and assist with John's recovery.

"No matter how big or how small your donation, please know that'll help." The fundraiser had raised £17,500 by Wednesday morning. You can find out more and donate here.