The boxing community has been left “completely devastated” after John Cooney lost his battle for life.
The 28-year-old was left in a critical condition after getting injured during last weekend’s bout at the Ulster Hall.
He was rushed to hospital after his contest against Nathan Howells.
At the time, show promoter Mark Dunlop of MHD Promotions confirmed Mr Cooney was receiving treatment at the Royal Victoria Hospital.
But tonight the promoter announced Mr Cooney, who is from Galway, had died.
“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,” MHD Promotions said.
“Mr and Mrs Cooney and his fiancée Emmaleen would like to thank the staff at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital who have worked tirelessly to save John’s life and for everyone who has sent messages of support and prayers.
“He was a much loved son, brother and partner and It will take us all a lifetime to forget how special he was.
“RIP John ‘The Kid Cooney’.”
Mr Cooney was injured in last week’s bout and suffered an intracranial haemorrhage.
The contest – his first defence of his Celtic super-featherweight title – was stopped in the ninth round.
Mr Cooney was assessed by the medical team in the ring before being transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.
A fundraiser was set up with the authorisation of his family and his boxing manager which had raised around £47,000 as of tonight.
Tributes were paid, including from former professional boxer turned coach Conrad Cummings.
He said: “John Cooney the warrior gave up his fight and passed away this evening
“I am deeply saddened, I can’t begin to think of the hurt his poor fiancée and family are going through.. I pray they find the strength.”
The Ulster Hall posted on X: “We’re sending heartfelt condolences to John Cooney’s family and friends and the wider boxing community. A devastating outcome for this young sportsman and all those around him.”
More to follow