John Cooney updates as Galway boxer fighting for life after boxing match

Galway: John Cooney is in intensive care at a Belfast hospital. He had emergency brain surgery after a boxing match on Saturday night.

John, a super-featherweight boxer from Clarinbridge, fought Nathan Howells to defend his Celtic title. The fight ended in the ninth round.

After the match, John was taken to Royal Victoria Hospital. Doctors found he had an intracranial hemorrhage and performed surgery to relieve pressure on his brain.

Boxing promoter Mark Dunlop said John is in the ICU and receiving good care. His fiancée Emmalean and parents Hughie and Tina appreciate the support and ask for thoughts and prayers.

Social media is filled with well-wishes for John’s recovery. Fans are hoping for his speedy return to health.

John won the Celtic title in November 2023 with a first-round victory over Liam Gaynor. He had a year off due to a hand injury before returning to the ring in October.

An intracranial hemorrhage, or brain bleed, happens when blood pools between the brain and skull. Surgery is often needed to drain the blood or repair damaged vessels.