John Cooney in Critical Condition After Fight

Super-featherweight boxer John Cooney remains in critical condition after undergoing brain surgery following a ninth-round knockout defeat by Nathan Howells in Belfast. Cooney, who was defending his Celtic super-featherweight title, suffered an intracranial haemorrhage and is currently in intensive care at Royal Victoria Hospital. The fight marked Cooney's first professional defeat, and both his promoter, Mark Dunlop, and opponent, Nathan Howells, have expressed their support and hope for his recovery. Cooney's family, including his mother Tina, have publicly shared their emotional support, emphasizing their hope for his recovery. Cooney had previously won the title with a first-round victory over Liam Gaynor and had a year-long break due to a hand injury before returning to the ring. The boxing community is rallying behind Cooney during this challenging time, with widespread messages of encouragement and respect.